Josh Fraser Departs Collingwood for Carlton Assistant Coach Role: A Legacy of Development and Dedication
In 2023, a familiar face returned to the AIA Centre—Josh Fraser, a former number one draft pick, life member, and Magpie through and through. His reintroduction to the Collingwood Football Club was met with warmth and optimism, especially as he stepped into the critical role of Head of Development. Now, after two seasons in that role, Fraser is set to depart the club once again—this time to join the Carlton Football Club as an Assistant Coach.
The news marks both the end of an impactful chapter and the beginning of an exciting new venture for a Collingwood favourite son.
A Full-Circle Football Journey
Josh Fraser’s journey with Collingwood began in 1999 when he was selected as the number one pick in the AFL National Draft. Towering at over 200 cm, Fraser quickly established himself as a versatile and mobile ruckman, debuting in Round 1 of the 2000 season. Over the next decade, he became a mainstay in the black and white, amassing 200 games and playing a key role in the club’s rise during the early 2000s, including Grand Final appearances in 2002 and 2003.
Following his playing days at Collingwood, Fraser spent a short stint with the Gold Coast Suns before transitioning into coaching—a path that would ultimately lead him back home.
In 2023, Fraser returned to Collingwood, not as a player, but as the Head of Development. It was a role perfectly suited for someone who had not only experienced the highs and lows of elite football but had also walked the same hallways, worn the same jumper, and understood the weight and pride of representing the Magpies.
Driving Player Growth and Culture
Fraser’s impact as Head of Development went beyond on-field results. He was instrumental in mentoring the club’s young and emerging talent, many of whom were navigating the early challenges of AFL life. His approach combined deep technical knowledge with emotional intelligence—understanding that development isn’t just about refining skills, but about building resilient, adaptable, and team-first footballers.
Under Fraser’s guidance, Collingwood’s younger brigade flourished. The club has seen a remarkable influx of promising talent take major strides in 2023 and 2024. Players like Joe Richards, Ed Allan, and Harvey Harrison benefited from Fraser’s mentorship, while others found their feet in the VFL program that he helped drive with structure, accountability, and opportunity.
He also worked closely with the club’s coaching group, including Senior Coach Craig McRae, to ensure alignment between the development pathways and the game style being implemented at AFL level. Fraser’s voice became one of calm assurance and quiet leadership within the football department—qualities that clearly attracted attention beyond the walls of the AIA Centre.
A New Opportunity at Ikon Park
With his move to Carlton, Fraser steps into a new challenge as an Assistant Coach—an elevation that recognises his growing coaching credentials. While the rivalry between Collingwood and Carlton runs deep, there is a professional respect in Fraser’s decision. The move is a natural progression in his coaching career and offers him a chance to expand his responsibilities and experience at the top level.
For Fraser, this isn’t just a new job—it’s the next phase of a coaching journey that began over a decade ago. Carlton will gain a coach who not only understands the demands of modern football but who brings with him the lessons of one of the game’s most storied clubs. Fraser’s ability to connect with players, foster growth, and help mould team culture will no doubt be invaluable to the Blues as they seek to take the next step in their premiership pursuit.
Collingwood’s Lasting Gratitude
In a statement, Collingwood Football Club thanked Fraser for his dedication and service, highlighting the respect he commands both on and off the field. Football boss Graham Wright noted, “Josh has been a valued leader within our football department and has played a key role in developing the next generation of Collingwood players. While we are sad to see him go, we are also incredibly proud to see him take the next step in his coaching career.”
Fans too have shared their appreciation, with many taking to social media to acknowledge Fraser’s contributions and wish him well—albeit with the hope that his new side doesn’t get the better of the Magpies any time soon.
His legacy at Collingwood will remain not only in highlight reels and player stats, but in the culture he helped shape and the young men he helped mentor—many of whom will continue to carry the club forward into a new era.
Not Goodbye, But See You Later
In football, departures are inevitable. Coaches move, players retire, and the game goes on. But certain names carry with them a sense of permanence, of identity. Josh Fraser is one of those names at Collingwood.
From teenage prodigy to seasoned player, from VFL mentor to development chief, Fraser’s journey has mirrored the growth of the club itself over the past 25 years. And while he now trades black and white for navy blue, the stripes will always be part of his football DNA.
As Fraser takes this next step, Collingwood supporters can take comfort in knowing that his time at the club—both as a player and coach—has left a lasting impression.
Because in the end, there’s one thing that doesn’t change, no matter where football may take you:
Once a Pie, always a Pie.
