𝐃𝐀𝐈𝐂𝐎𝐒 𝐃𝐎𝐌𝐈𝐍𝐀𝐓𝐈𝐎𝐍: 𝐍𝐈𝐂𝐊 𝐀𝐍𝐃 𝐉𝐎𝐒𝐇 𝐋𝐄𝐀𝐃 𝐋𝐄𝐀𝐆𝐔𝐄 𝐈𝐍 𝐃𝐈𝐒𝐏𝐎𝐒𝐀𝐋𝐒 𝐀𝐇𝐄𝐀𝐃 𝐎𝐅 𝐑𝐎𝐔𝐍𝐃 𝟑!
The Daicos brothers are proving unstoppable. After just two rounds of the 2025 AFL season, Nick and Josh Daicos have taken complete control of the competition, sitting first and second in the league for total disposals. It’s a dazzling start that has reaffirmed Collingwood’s dominance — and reminded everyone why the Daicos name remains one of the most revered in football.
Nick Daicos, the 2023 Brownlow Medal winner, has picked up right where he left off. Averaging more than 35 disposals per game, he’s been at the heart of Collingwood’s midfield engine, weaving through opponents with his trademark composure and laser-like precision. His ability to read the play several moves ahead continues to leave coaches and fans in awe. Whether rebounding off half-back or slicing through the middle, Nick’s influence has been nothing short of elite.
Older brother Josh, meanwhile, has been equally instrumental. Operating on the wing and through the midfield, his balance, skill execution, and decision-making have been near flawless. Averaging over 32 disposals so far, Josh has complemented Nick perfectly — providing the run, width, and creative flair that make Collingwood’s ball movement so hard to stop. Together, they’ve become the most lethal sibling duo in the competition.
Coach Craig McRae praised the pair for setting the standard early in the season, both on and off the field.
> “They’re professionals in every sense of the word,” McRae said. “Nick and Josh drive our standards every day. Their work ethic, their care for the team, and their ability to deliver under pressure — it’s exceptional. They’re both still improving, which is a scary thought.”
What’s perhaps most impressive is the chemistry the brothers share. They seem to instinctively know where the other is on the field — often linking up through chains of handballs or pinpoint kicks that tear defensive structures apart. That connection has become one of Collingwood’s greatest weapons, transforming defensive rebounds into scoring opportunities within seconds.
Fans have been quick to take notice. Social media has exploded with clips of the pair dominating clearances, evading tackles, and orchestrating attacking plays with a smoothness that only siblings could share. Many are already calling them the most dynamic duo since the Abletts or the Burgoyne brothers.
Their impact has also shown up in the stats. Collingwood currently leads the AFL in total disposals, effective kicks, and inside 50 efficiency — a direct reflection of the Daicos brothers’ control of the ball. Their calmness under pressure has given the Magpies a level of consistency that few teams can match.
For Nick, the challenge will be to sustain his incredible form as opposition sides inevitably increase their attention. For Josh, it’s about continuing to elevate his inside game and prove he’s more than just a classy wingman — something he’s already done with his contested-ball improvement.
As Round 3 approaches, one thing is certain: the Daicos brothers are redefining what it means to dominate AFL football. With youth, confidence, and elite skill on their side, they’re not just leading Collingwood’s charge — they’re shaping the future of the game itself.
The rest of the competition has been warned: when the Daicos brothers have it on a string, there’s simply no stopping them.
