𝐆𝐄𝐄𝐋𝐎𝐍𝐆 𝐋𝐀𝐍𝐃 𝐀 𝐁𝐈𝐆 𝐍𝐀𝐌𝐄: 𝐍𝐀𝐓𝐇𝐀𝐍 𝐁𝐔𝐂𝐊𝐋𝐄𝐘 𝐉𝐎𝐈𝐍𝐒 𝐂𝐀𝐓𝐒 𝐀𝐒 𝐀𝐒𝐒𝐈𝐒𝐓𝐀𝐍𝐓 𝐂𝐎𝐀𝐂𝐇
In a major off-field coup, Geelong Football Club has officially confirmed that AFL great Nathan Buckley will join their coaching panel as an assistant coach for the 2026 season. The announcement, made on Sunday morning, has sent ripples through the football world, marking Buckley’s first return to a full-time coaching role since departing Collingwood in 2021.
The former Collingwood captain and coach—one of the game’s most respected minds—will bring a wealth of tactical knowledge and leadership experience to the Cats’ ranks. Sources close to the club say Buckley will work closely with senior coach Chris Scott, with a focus on midfield strategy and player development.
Geelong’s football manager, Simon Lloyd, hailed the appointment as a “massive win” for the club’s future. “Nathan’s understanding of the modern game, his attention to detail, and his ability to bring the best out of people will be invaluable for our playing group,” Lloyd said.
Buckley, 53, expressed his excitement at joining the Geelong program. “I’ve admired the culture Chris and the team have built over many years. This is a great opportunity to contribute, learn, and help drive success,” he said.
Since stepping away from coaching, Buckley has become a popular media figure, providing sharp analysis on Fox Footy and SEN. His move back to the coaches’ box signals a strong desire to return to the intensity of AFL competition.
Geelong, who continue to blend veteran experience with emerging talent, believe Buckley’s appointment strengthens their pursuit of another premiership push. For Cats fans, it’s yet another statement that the club remains firmly in the hunt for glory.
𝐆𝐞𝐞𝐥𝐨𝐧𝐠 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟔: 𝐧𝐞𝐰 𝐞𝐧𝐞𝐫𝐠𝐲, 𝐧𝐞𝐰 𝐞𝐫𝐚 — 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐧𝐨𝐰, 𝐚 𝐥𝐞𝐠𝐞𝐧𝐝 𝐢𝐧 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐛𝐥𝐮𝐞 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐰𝐡𝐢𝐭𝐞.
