2023 flag hero-turned-development coach Nathan Murphy has informed Collingwood of his desire to relocate his young family, ending his stint as a development coach at the Magpies.
Murphy will reunite with premiership teammate Scott Pendlebury at the Gold Coast Suns, where he will resume his work as a development and assistant coach, after two seasons in a similar role on Olympic Boulevard.
Concussion ended the brave defender's career prematurely, with Murphy failing to take the field in a playing capacity again after a head knock very early in the 2023 Grand Final.
His beloved Pies would go on to win anyway, with Murphy forever enshrined as a premiership player at the storied club.
Following his medical retirement, the elite junior cricketer and Brighton Grammar student transitioned into the development space, that he may remain involved in football.
Murphy had a particular interest in the improvement of his fellow backmen, guiding the revolving door of young backmen called upon in 2026 in particular, as Craig McRae's defensive stocks were hammered by injury.
After nine years as a player and coach, we will farewell Nathan Murphy this off-season 🥹🖤🤍
The 2023 Premiership player has decided to relocate his family and pursue other opportunities interstate.
More: https://t.co/dbqw4aszMU pic.twitter.com/tyE9p1C3mc
— Collingwood FC (@CollingwoodFC) September 14, 2026
Footy boss Charlie Gardiner thanked Murphy for his nine-year contribution to the football club.
“Nathan is an outstanding person and has played a valuable role within our coaching team in recent times, working closely with our young players to support their growth and development,” Gardiner said.
“We will miss ‘Murph's' energy and enthusiasm around the Club and we wish him, Rose and Romee all the best for the move north.”
