The agony of falling short of a second Grand Final berth in three seasons will drive Collingwood in 2026, according to senior coach Craig McRae.
The Magpies were outclassed by the eventual premiers Brisbane in a home preliminary final, unable to capitalise on a dominant six-goal second quarter which had them ahead of Fagan's men by 13 points at the main break.
Collingwood would kick just four more goals for the remainder of the match to Brisbane's 11, with McRae stating to AFL.com.au that the small moments of the blockbuster added up against his side.
While some viewed Collingwood's upset over minor premiers Adelaide to claim a home preliminary final as an overachievement, given the age of their list and poor form in the back half of 2025, the "what if" of a spot in the decider is driving McRae's Pies to go one better this year.
"I've been able to reflect a little bit now and getting so close," McRae said.
"Seeing the eventual premiers go on and win after beating us... All credit to Brisbane to be honest, we did a lot right that night but against good opposition you've got to execute.
"Small things make big results in the end and a couple of stoppage goals really hurt us at critical times.
"It's all part of our journey really. Making preliminary finals every year, you're quite happy, but when you get that close, there's that feeling of 'what if' or 'if only'."
McRae pointed to the strong development of the young guns on his list which emerged last season to take strides again in 2026 - players who could have significant influence in another deep September run.
"The likes of Ned Long have gone to another level with his fitness and preparation, Roan Steele is the same. Roan in particular has only been in our program six months and has improved a lot," McRae said.
"During the season we like to evolve. Last year was no different, and the same thing will happen this year. Where we start won't be where we finish."
2025 was a breakout season for Long through perseverance and determination, beginning the year as a regular substitute before McRae was forced to select him in his starting 22 due to his efforts. The commanding onballer was the Robin to Nick Daicos' Batman, averaging 18.5 disposals per game in matches where he spent at least 65 per cent time on ground.
Steele made his mark as an impact substitute in the post-season and has proven to be AFL-ready since being taken in the mid-season draft, dominating in his weeks spent at VFL level. As one of the club's best runners, and Beau McCreery's fitness in question as Opening Round approaches, the 24-year-old will be looking to lock down a wing role this year
Collingwood open their season against St Kilda at the MCG on March 8, but will first play GWS in a scratch match on February 20, and North Melbourne in a standardised pre-season clash on March 1.
