BREAKING NEWS: “Welcome to the Magpie Army, Teddy Swims!” — Grammy-Nominated Superstar Joins the Collingwood Family in a Heartwarming Melbourne Moment 🎵⚫️⚪️
In a moment that no one saw coming but everyone is talking about, Grammy-nominated American soul sensation Teddy Swims has officially been welcomed into the Magpie Army, embracing the black and white of the Collingwood Football Club during his recent tour stop in Melbourne, Australia.
The charismatic singer, known globally for his powerhouse vocals, soulful renditions, and magnetic personality, met Crispy (Jack Crisp) — one of Collingwood’s most beloved and consistent players — before his sold-out Melbourne show on Friday night. What began as a friendly visit between two performers from vastly different worlds turned into an unforgettable cultural crossover between music and footy that fans are still buzzing about.
🎤 A Meeting of Icons: Soul Meets Steel
It all unfolded backstage at Melbourne’s iconic Margaret Court Arena, where Teddy Swims was set to perform to a roaring crowd. The air was electric as the Atlanta-born star prepared for his performance — but before he even stepped on stage, he was greeted by none other than Jack Crisp, affectionately nicknamed “Crispy,” one of Collingwood’s most durable and admired players.
Clad in his signature style of colorful shirts and soulful swagger, Teddy greeted the AFL star with his trademark warmth and a grin that could light up the room. Crisp, meanwhile, came bearing gifts — a Collingwood guernsey emblazoned with Swims’ name and number on the back.
As the cameras flashed and fans watched on social media, Swims couldn’t hide his excitement. “This is insane, man! I’m officially part of the Magpie Army now!” he exclaimed, holding up the black-and-white jumper with pride.
The moment symbolized more than just a celebrity gesture — it was a genuine connection between two passionate performers at the top of their games, united by the shared spirit of dedication, resilience, and community that defines both music and football.
⚫️⚪️ From Atlanta to the Aisles of the ‘G: A New Magpie Is Born
For many Australian fans, Teddy Swims’ embrace of Collingwood comes as a delightful surprise. The singer, whose real name is Jaten Dimsdale, has always spoken about his love for connecting with local cultures when touring around the world. In Melbourne — a city where AFL isn’t just a sport but a way of life — it was only fitting that he got a taste of the country’s most beloved game.
Crisp, who has played over 200 consecutive games and is one of Collingwood’s most dependable figures, said after the meeting, “Teddy’s energy is unreal. He’s got that passion that reminds me of our locker room before a big game. The way he connects with people — that’s what being a Magpie is all about.”
For Swims, whose music blends soul, R&B, and country in a uniquely heartfelt style, the Collingwood spirit seemed to strike a chord. “Man, I love the black and white,” he told fans. “It’s clean, it’s classic, and these guys play with so much heart. That’s the kind of energy I try to bring to my music.”
By the time his concert began, the singer had already declared himself “honorary Collingwood for life,” sending Magpie fans into a frenzy online. Social media erupted with posts welcoming the American singer into the fold, with many sharing edits of Swims in full Collingwood kit and tagging him with the message:
“Once a Magpie, always a Magpie.”
🎶 Music, Mateship, and Melbourne Magic
Swims’ Melbourne concert that night was one to remember. The crowd — already hyped for his hits like Lose Control, Bed on Fire, and The Door — was treated to a show that felt more like a celebration than a performance. Midway through his set, Swims surprised fans by shouting out Collingwood and the Magpie Army, drawing huge cheers from the local audience.
“Melbourne, I feel the love! I met my boy Crispy tonight — shout out to the Collingwood Magpies!” he said, raising his arms as the crowd roared in response.
Fans later described the moment as “pure goosebumps.” One concertgoer said on social media,
“Never thought I’d see Teddy Swims talking footy at a gig — but he’s officially one of us now. Welcome to the black and white, legend!”
Another fan added,
“He fits right in. Passionate, humble, and full of energy — he’s got Magpie written all over him.”
🏉 Collingwood’s Star Power: A Club That Transcends Sport
The Collingwood Football Club has long been more than just a sports team — it’s a cultural institution, with a passionate fan base known for its fierce loyalty and unmistakable colors. The club’s influence stretches well beyond the boundaries of the AFL, reaching into the realms of entertainment, music, and community engagement.
Over the years, Collingwood has attracted a host of high-profile admirers from various walks of life — from Hollywood actors to global musicians. But Teddy Swims’ induction into the Magpie Army feels particularly special, not only because of his rising global stardom but also because of the authenticity with which he embraced the club’s identity.
Crisp himself summed it up best after the event:
“You could tell he wasn’t just doing it for the cameras. He genuinely loved the vibe. It’s awesome to see someone from the other side of the world connect with what makes Collingwood special.”
🌍 A Global Bond: When Music Meets Australian Culture
For Swims, this wasn’t his first encounter with the passionate sports culture Down Under. During his previous tour in 2023, he expressed fascination with how Australians rally around their sports teams. But this time, it felt personal.
According to members of his touring crew, Swims had been curious about the AFL for weeks, asking fans and local staff to explain the rules and rivalries. When the chance arose to meet a Collingwood player, it was an easy “yes.”
“He’s the kind of artist who loves connection,” one of his team members said. “He doesn’t just play shows — he wants to understand the heart of every city he visits. In Melbourne, that heart beats in black and white.”
The interaction even sparked a lighthearted exchange online between Swims and Collingwood’s official account. The club’s post read:
“Welcome to the Magpie Army, @teddyswims! ⚫️⚪️ Once a Magpie, always a Magpie.”
Swims cheekily replied:
“I’m in it for life! Go Pies!!”
The tweet quickly went viral, drawing thousands of likes and comments from fans who loved seeing the crossover between international music and Aussie sport.
💫 What’s Next for the Newest Magpie?
After his Melbourne stop, Swims is set to continue his Australian tour with shows in Sydney, Brisbane, and Perth — and it wouldn’t surprise anyone if a Collingwood scarf or guernsey made an appearance on stage again.
Rumors are already swirling that the club may invite him to the MCG next season to perform at a game or even at a Grand Final event. While nothing has been confirmed, fans are already dreaming of a halftime performance featuring Swims belting out his soulful hits before a roaring Collingwood crowd.
As for the man himself, Teddy seems more than happy to carry the black-and-white banner with pride. “I love you, Melbourne,” he told the crowd that night. “And I love my Magpies!”
❤️ A Moment That Perfectly Captures Why We Love Sport and Music
The meeting between Teddy Swims and Jack Crisp might seem like a small gesture, but it’s one that beautifully encapsulates the universal language of passion — whether it’s through music or sport.
Both worlds share the same heartbeat: connection, emotion, and the joy of bringing people together. And on that Friday night in Melbourne, those worlds collided in the best way possible — a Grammy-nominated American singer joining the ranks of one of Australia’s most iconic football clubs.
As the lights dimmed and Teddy Swims took the stage, the Magpie Army had grown by one — but what a powerful new member he is.
Welcome to the family, Teddy Swims. Once a Magpie, always a Magpie. ⚫️⚪️🎵
