GREAT NEWS: “I’VE MADE UP MY MIND” – Collingwood Football CEO Craig Kelly Drops a Bombshell Decision About Delisted Star Mason Cox, Blindsiding Head Coach Craig McRae and the Entire AFL Community
In a stunning turn of events that has rocked the AFL world, Collingwood Football Club CEO Craig Kelly has confirmed that fan favourite and former Collingwood star Mason Cox will make a sensational return to the Magpies for the 2026 AFL season. After being delisted and spending over a decade away from the club, Kelly revealed that he has “made up his mind” — Mason Cox deserves one final opportunity to finish his story where it all began.
Speaking at a surprise press conference on Tuesday morning, Kelly’s announcement reportedly caught even head coach Craig McRae and several senior staff members off guard. The CEO’s passionate statement quickly sent shockwaves through the Collingwood fanbase and across the entire AFL community.
> “I’ve made up my mind,” Kelly declared. “Mason Cox is more than just a player — he’s part of our club’s soul. After discussions with key members of the board and reflecting on what he has meant to this organization, I believe Mason deserves one more chance to wear the black and white stripes. He’ll return in 2026 and retire as a Magpie.”
The decision marks a remarkable comeback story for Cox, who first joined the club in 2014 as a rookie from Oklahoma, USA. Known for his height, towering presence, and determination, Cox quickly became a cult hero at the MCG. His standout performance in the 2018 Preliminary Final against Richmond remains etched in AFL history, where he led Collingwood to a famous victory with his commanding marks and goals.
After being delisted following the 2024 season and spending time away from professional footy, few expected Cox to ever grace the AFL stage again. However, Kelly’s bold decision changes everything. The CEO revealed that Cox’s professionalism, fitness commitment, and ongoing work in community sports initiatives convinced the club he still has something special to offer.
> “This isn’t just sentiment,” Kelly continued. “Mason has kept himself in top physical condition and remains deeply connected to the Collingwood family. He’s motivated, he’s focused, and he wants to give back to the fans who supported him through it all.”
Coach Craig McRae reportedly expressed surprise at the decision but vowed to support it fully, describing Cox’s return as “a unique moment for the club.” He added that the veteran forward’s leadership and experience could have a positive influence on younger players.
Fans have flooded social media with excitement, calling it “the perfect ending” for one of Collingwood’s most beloved figures. Many see Cox’s return as a symbol of loyalty, resilience, and unfinished business.
As the Magpies prepare for the 2026 season, Mason Cox’s comeback promises to be one of the most emotional storylines in AFL history. The towering ruck-forward will not only get one final shot at glory — he’ll also have the chance to retire as a Collingwood Magpie, the club where his Australian football dream began 11 years ago.
For fans and players alike, it’s more than just great news — it’s the closing chapter of a legend.
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