Pies stars in race against time to face Saints; Coaches welcome club experience at AFL House
Sydney Morning Herald
by Peter Ryan, Jon PierikFebruary 23, 2026
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The AFL Coaches Association has appointed Brenton Sanderson as its new chair, bringing club experience to the league's executive team and aiming to amplify coaches' voices at AFL headquarters. Sanderson, a former senior coach, joins at a critical time for coaches, who are pushing for better dialogue with the league over issues like the soft cap on coach payments.
Collingwood faces challenges ahead of its season opener against St Kilda, with key defenders Darcy Moore and Jeremy Howe's fitness in question. Both players have been sidelined by calf injuries during pre-season training, leaving the Magpies' defensive unit vulnerable. Moore, who strained his calf last month, is on a modified training program but remains touch and go for the March 8 clash at the MCG. Meanwhile, Howe re-aggravated a calf complaint, putting him in a similar uncertain position.
The absence of these key defenders was noticeable during Collingwood's recent match simulation against Greater Western Sydney, where the Magpies were exploited in their defensive 50-metre arc. Additionally, star defender Bobby Hill is on personal leave, further complicating the team's readiness for the season. Captain D
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Originally published on Sydney Morning Herald on 2/23/2026