BREAKING NEWS :Collingwoods Ben Reid has announced his return to collingwood as Bench Coach….

In an exciting turn of events, Ben Reid, former Collingwood Football Club defender and premiership player, has officially announced his return to the club. Reid will rejoin the Collingwood Magpies, this time as a Bench Coach, bringing with him a wealth of experience and a deep connection to the club. This news has sent ripples of excitement throughout the AFL community, with fans and former players expressing their joy at seeing Reid back where his career blossomed.

In this comprehensive analysis, we’ll dive into the details of Ben Reid’s illustrious playing career, his time away from the game, and what his return as a coach means for the Collingwood Football Club, its players, and the broader AFL landscape.

Ben Reid: The Player

Early Career and Rise to Prominence

Ben Reid’s journey to AFL stardom began in his teenage years. Drafted by Collingwood in 2006 at the young age of 17, Reid’s raw talent was undeniable. Born in Wangaratta, Victoria, Reid had already made waves in local football circles as a tall, athletic player who could compete both in the backline and forward line. His early years at Collingwood were marked by gradual development as he adjusted to the rigors of AFL football. Reid’s early versatility, capable of playing as a key forward or defender, made him a valuable asset.

However, it wasn’t until 2010 that Reid truly began to make his mark as a reliable key defender. His exceptional marking ability, coupled with his impressive footy IQ, saw him cement his place in the Collingwood backline. The 2010 season turned out to be a career-defining one for Reid, as Collingwood went on to win the AFL Premiership, breaking a 20-year drought for the Magpies. Reid’s role in that success was critical, with his defensive prowess ensuring stability at the back in the Grand Final replay against St Kilda.

Reid’s efforts didn’t go unnoticed. In 2011, he was named in the All-Australian team, a prestigious honor recognizing him as one of the best defenders in the competition. His combination of size, athleticism, and decision-making made him one of the premier key defenders of the AFL during the early 2010s.

Challenges and Injuries

Unfortunately, Reid’s playing career was not without its challenges. Despite his early success, injuries began to plague him, hindering his ability to stay on the field consistently. His body, particularly his soft tissues, seemed to struggle with the physical demands of AFL. Hamstring and calf issues became recurring themes throughout his career, often sidelining him for extended periods.

These injuries created a sense of frustration for both Reid and the Collingwood faithful, as his potential seemed limitless when he was fit and firing. Nonetheless, Reid’s resilience shone through, and despite these setbacks, he remained a beloved figure at the club for his leadership, professionalism, and commitment to the team.

By the time Reid retired in 2020, he had played 152 games for Collingwood, a career marked by high points such as his role in the 2010 Premiership and low points as his battle with injuries kept him from reaching even greater heights.

Life After Retirement

After hanging up his boots in 2020, Reid took a step back from the high-pressure environment of AFL. Like many players who transition out of professional sport, Reid sought time to focus on life outside of football, spending more time with his family and exploring interests away from the spotlight. However, his passion for the game never waned. He remained a close observer of AFL, and his deep connection to Collingwood remained strong.

During this time, Reid began to consider a possible future in coaching. Many of his former teammates and opponents had successfully transitioned into coaching roles, and Reid, known for his footy smarts and leadership qualities on the field, seemed a natural fit for a mentoring role. Rumors swirled over the years about Reid possibly returning to football in some capacity, but he remained out of the limelight—until now.

The Announcement: Ben Reid Returns as Bench Coach

In a move that has delighted Collingwood fans, Ben Reid has officially announced his return to the club as a Bench Coach. The decision marks a new chapter in Reid’s football journey, and it represents a significant boost to the club’s coaching ranks. Reid’s understanding of the modern game, his connection with current players, and his status as a Premiership player with the club make him a valuable addition to the coaching team.

The announcement came during a press conference held at the Holden Centre, where Collingwood head coach Craig McRae introduced Reid to the media. McRae, who has been at the helm of Collingwood’s resurgence in recent years, spoke glowingly about Reid’s return:

“Ben has always been a leader, even during his playing days. He’s someone who the younger guys can look up to, and his understanding of the game is second to none. Having him as part of the coaching team is a massive win for us. He knows the culture here, he knows what it takes to win, and he’s going to play a key role in helping us achieve our goals moving forward.”

Reid, in his remarks, expressed his excitement at being back at Collingwood:

“This club has given me so much, and to be able to return and contribute as a coach is something I’m incredibly grateful for. Coaching is something I’ve thought about for a while, and when the opportunity came to join Collingwood in this capacity, it just felt right. I’m looking forward to working with the boys and helping the team in any way I can.”

What Does a Bench Coach Do?

For those unfamiliar with the specific role of a Bench Coach, it is a position that has grown in importance in modern AFL. The Bench Coach operates from the interchange area during matches, serving as a key link between the head coach, assistant coaches, and the players. They are responsible for managing player rotations, ensuring that players are substituted at the right times, and providing tactical advice during the game. The Bench Coach also has a close relationship with the playing group, as they are often the first point of contact for players when they come off the field.

In Reid’s case, his recent experience as a player will be invaluable. He has a firsthand understanding of the physical and mental challenges faced by players, especially those dealing with injuries or coming off extended stints on the bench. His role will be critical in helping manage player workloads, a factor that has become increasingly important in today’s game.

Reid’s Impact on the Current Playing Group

Reid’s return to Collingwood as Bench Coach is expected to have an immediate impact on the playing group. Collingwood boasts a talented and youthful list, with several key players emerging as future stars of the AFL. The club’s success in recent years has been built on a foundation of fast-paced, attacking football, and Reid’s experience as a versatile player will help in fostering this style of play.

Mentoring the Defenders

As a former key defender, Reid’s primary area of influence is likely to be with the Collingwood backline. Players like Darcy Moore, Isaac Quaynor, and Nathan Murphy are likely to benefit from Reid’s guidance. Moore, who captained the team to a Grand Final appearance in 2023, has already established himself as one of the premier defenders in the competition. However, with Reid’s tutelage, Moore’s game could go to another level, particularly in terms of leadership and game management.

Younger defenders like Murphy and Quaynor, who have shown flashes of brilliance, will also benefit from Reid’s insights into positioning, reading the play, and managing opposition forwards. Collingwood’s defensive unit has been a strength in recent seasons, and Reid’s return could help solidify this area even further.

Leadership and Experience

Another key aspect of Reid’s return is the leadership qualities he brings. As a Premiership player who has experienced the highs and lows of AFL football, Reid knows what it takes to succeed at the highest level. His experience will be invaluable, not just for the defenders but for the entire playing group. Players like Jordan De Goey, Brayden Maynard, and Nick Daicos will no doubt benefit from having someone like Reid around to offer advice and guidance.

The Broader Context: Collingwood’s Coaching Dynamics

Reid’s return comes at a pivotal time for Collingwood. Under Craig McRae’s leadership, the club has enjoyed a resurgence, consistently competing at the pointy end of the ladder and making deep finals runs. The addition of Reid to the coaching panel strengthens the club’s leadership group and offers McRae another experienced football mind to lean on.

McRae’s collaborative coaching style is well-known, and Reid’s appointment as Bench Coach fits into this framework. Reid’s calm demeanor and ability to communicate effectively with players will complement McRae’s coaching philosophy, which emphasizes connection and player empowerment. In this role, Reid will act as a conduit between McRae, the rest of the coaching staff, and the playing group.

Fan Reaction and Media Buzz

The news of Ben Reid’s return to Collingwood has been met with widespread enthusiasm from the club’s supporters. Collingwood fans, known for their passion and loyalty, have always had a special place for their Premiership heroes, and Reid is no exception. Social media has been flooded with messages of support and excitement, with many fans reminiscing about Reid’s playing days and expressing optimism about what he can bring to the coaching staff.

Prominent AFL media personalities have also weighed in on the news. Former Collingwood players and pundits alike have praised the move, with some describing it as a “masterstroke” by the club’s leadership.