Collingwood Mourns the Loss of John Parkinson, Launches “Magpie Minds” Program, and Prepares for Finals Clash with Adelaide Crows
The Collingwood Football Club has experienced a week of both sorrow and celebration as it navigates the highs and lows of the sporting world. In recent days, the Magpies community has mourned the passing of former player John Parkinson, unveiled a new mental health and education initiative titled “Magpie Minds,” and embraced the excitement of their upcoming finals campaign against the Adelaide Crows.
Remembering John Parkinson
The club confirmed the passing of John Parkinson, who wore the black and white stripes during the 1960s and early 1970s. Parkinson was admired not only for his on-field efforts but also for his enduring contributions to the Collingwood community long after retirement.
Known for his grit and determination as a forward, Parkinson represented the heart and soul of Collingwood’s hard-working playing culture. Fans who remembered watching him spoke of his fearless style and ability to rise in crucial moments.
Club President Jeff Browne paid tribute: “John Parkinson embodied what it meant to be a Magpie. He played with courage, humility, and passion, and he never lost his love for the game or for Collingwood. Our thoughts are with his family during this difficult time.”
The AFL community echoed the sentiment, acknowledging Parkinson as part of the generation that helped solidify Collingwood’s reputation as one of the great clubs of Australian rules football. A minute’s silence will be observed before the next Collingwood match in his honor.
Launch of “Magpie Minds”
Amidst the mourning, Collingwood also took a proactive step in promoting well-being by launching “Magpie Minds”, a program designed to address mental health, education, and resilience among young people.
The initiative, unveiled at the Holden Centre, will focus on schools and local communities, combining workshops, mentoring, and interactive sessions led by Collingwood players and mental health professionals. The goal is to encourage open conversations about mental health challenges while promoting strategies for building confidence and resilience.
Chief Executive Craig Kelly described the program as “a commitment to making a lasting impact off the field.”
“We want Collingwood to be known not just for its success in football but for the way it supports and inspires the next generation,” Kelly said. “Magpie Minds is about giving young people the tools to thrive in life, not just in sport.”
Several current players, including captain Darcy Moore, were present at the launch, speaking candidly about their own challenges and the importance of building supportive environments. The program will be rolled out across Victoria in partnership with schools, community groups, and health organizations.
Finals Build-Up: Collingwood vs. Adelaide Crows
While the club reflected on the past and embraced its new community initiative, the excitement of the AFL finals remains front and center. Collingwood is set to face the Adelaide Crows in what promises to be a thrilling clash.
After a strong home-and-away season, the Magpies enter the finals with momentum and a hunger to prove themselves as genuine premiership contenders. The showdown with Adelaide will be a key test, given the Crows’ strong midfield and physical style of play.
Coach Craig McRae expressed confidence in his squad: “We’ve been preparing for this moment all season. Finals footy is about composure, hard work, and belief. Our players are ready for the challenge that Adelaide will bring.”
Supporters are equally energized, with tickets selling out rapidly and anticipation building for what could be one of the most memorable finals in recent memory. For many fans, the finals also serve as a tribute to the club’s legacy, including legends like John Parkinson, whose memory remains part of Collingwood’s identity.
Balancing Grief, Growth, and Glory
The convergence of these three major events—the mourning of a club great, the launch of a forward-looking educational program, and the excitement of a finals campaign—highlights the unique nature of football clubs as both sporting and community institutions.
Collingwood has always prided itself on being more than just a football team. Its fans, players, and officials form a deeply connected family that celebrates together in good times and supports one another in moments of loss.
As the Magpies prepare for their clash with Adelaide, they do so with the memory of John Parkinson in their hearts and the knowledge that their influence extends beyond the field through initiatives like “Magpie Minds.”
Conclusion
This week has been one of contrasts for Collingwood: sorrow at the passing of John Parkinson, pride in the launch of Magpie Minds, and anticipation for a finals clash against the Adelaide Crows.
It is in these moments of reflection, innovation, and ambition that the Magpies reaffirm their unique place in Australian sport. For the players, the chance to honor the past while fighting for glory in the present will be a powerful motivator. For the fans, the journey embodies what it means to be part of the Collingwood family—sharing in grief, growth, and the pursuit of greatness.
