Nick Daicos Named All-Australian for Third Time as Collingwood Launches “Magpie Minds: Learning Side by Side”
Collingwood star Nick Daicos has added another remarkable accolade to his already impressive career, being named in the All-Australian team for the third consecutive year. The announcement not only cements Daicos’ standing as one of the premier players in the AFL but also highlights his consistency and leadership both on and off the field. To cap off an extraordinary week, the Magpies also unveiled their new education program, Magpie Minds: Learning Side by Side, a community initiative designed to support schools and young learners across Victoria.
Daicos’ selection as an All-Australian once again underscores his extraordinary influence on Collingwood’s midfield and half-back line. Despite his young age, the 21-year-old has established himself as one of the game’s most reliable and creative playmakers. With elite ball use, vision, and a relentless ability to find space, Daicos continues to elevate Collingwood’s game plan. His third All-Australian blazer places him in rare company, as few players have achieved such consistency so early in their careers.
Speaking after the announcement, Daicos expressed gratitude for the recognition while emphasizing the role of his teammates. “Individual honors are humbling, but they don’t happen without the collective effort,” he said. “I’m lucky to play alongside an incredible group who push me every week, and I see this as recognition for the whole team’s hard work.”
Collingwood coach Craig McRae was effusive in his praise for Daicos, noting that his maturity, preparation, and hunger for improvement set him apart. “Nick is a special player, but what makes him even more valuable is the way he inspires others,” McRae said. “To see him achieve three All-Australian selections so early is outstanding, but I think the best is still ahead of him.”
As Daicos celebrated his personal milestone, Collingwood also took a major step forward in its community engagement. The club officially launched Magpie Minds: Learning Side by Side, an educational program aimed at providing resources, mentorship, and classroom support to schools across Melbourne and regional Victoria.
The program is designed to connect Collingwood players, staff, and volunteers with educators, offering workshops, literacy and numeracy support, and mental health awareness initiatives. By partnering directly with schools, Collingwood hopes to build stronger learning environments and encourage young students to achieve their potential.
Collingwood CEO Mark Anderson described Magpie Minds as an extension of the club’s deep commitment to community involvement. “Football clubs are more than what happens on the field,” Anderson said. “We want to play a meaningful role in the lives of young people, and education is one of the most powerful ways we can do that. Magpie Minds will bring our players and staff into classrooms to learn side by side with students, breaking down barriers and fostering growth.”
Nick Daicos has already volunteered to play an active role in the initiative, seeing it as a chance to give back to the community that has supported his journey. “I’ve been really fortunate with the opportunities I’ve had through football and education,” Daicos said. “If I can help even a few kids feel more confident in their learning or inspire them to push a little harder, that means as much as anything I achieve on the field.”
The dual news of Daicos’ All-Australian honor and the Magpie Minds launch has created a wave of excitement among Collingwood fans. Many see it as evidence of a club that not only strives for excellence in the AFL but also recognizes its role in shaping the next generation off the field.
As Collingwood prepares for the upcoming finals series, Daicos’ form will be critical to the Magpies’ success. Yet just as important is the message the club is sending: that true leadership is not only about winning games but also about making a difference in the lives of others.
For Daicos, the combination of personal accolades and community contribution marks another chapter in what is shaping up to be one of the most influential careers of his generation. Both he and Collingwood appear determined to ensure that their legacy extends beyond the boundary line, reaching classrooms, families, and the wider community.
