Back in the Black and White: Matthew Lokan Returns to Collingwood to Lead the VFL Side in 2026
In a move that has ignited both nostalgia and excitement among Collingwood faithful, Matthew Lokan — a familiar name from the early 2000s — is officially returning to the club. Nearly two decades after donning the black and white as a player, Lokan will step back into the fold as the head coach of Collingwood’s VFL team for the 2026 season. The announcement, made with the club’s signature flair and pride, marks a full-circle moment in Lokan’s football journey, bringing his story with the Magpies into a compelling new chapter.
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A Welcome Homecoming
“Back in the black and white 🖤🤍,” the club’s social media post read — short, sharp, and loaded with emotion. Beneath it, fans flooded the comments with excitement, welcoming Lokan home and reminiscing about his hard-nosed playing days.
For Lokan, the return to Collingwood is more than a professional step; it’s a personal reconnection with the club that helped launch his AFL career. After 46 games with Collingwood between 2003 and 2005, he became known for his versatility, courage, and relentless work ethic. Though his AFL tenure was relatively brief, Lokan’s passion for the game and understanding of the club’s culture have endured through the years — qualities that now make him the ideal choice to guide the next generation of Magpies talent.
“It feels incredible to be back where it all began,” Lokan shared in a statement. “Collingwood has always been a special place for me. I’ve carried the lessons I learned here throughout my career, and I’m honoured to be able to contribute again, this time as a coach. The VFL side is a crucial part of the club’s development structure, and I can’t wait to help shape the future of Collingwood football.”
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From Player to Mentor
Matthew Lokan’s football journey is a testament to perseverance, adaptability, and an enduring love for the sport. Originally drafted from SANFL club Port Adelaide Magpies, Lokan burst onto the AFL scene with Collingwood in 2003. Under coach Mick Malthouse, he played all 25 games in his debut season — an impressive feat that earned him recognition as one of the team’s most reliable young players. Known for his ability to run, tackle, and execute under pressure, Lokan quickly became a fan favourite.
However, the road wasn’t always smooth. After strong early performances, Lokan found himself battling for form and opportunity in a changing Collingwood lineup. By the end of 2005, his time in the AFL had come to an end — but his love for football didn’t.
He transitioned to coaching, where his understanding of team dynamics and player development began to shine. Lokan spent several successful years with the Port Adelaide Magpies in the SANFL, guiding them through competitive seasons and earning a reputation as a coach who knows how to motivate and nurture young talent. His ability to balance tactical discipline with player empathy made him a respected figure in the coaching community.
Now, after years refining his craft and building experience, Lokan’s return to Collingwood represents a fitting reward — and a major opportunity to shape the club’s future stars.
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Collingwood’s Vision for 2026 and Beyond
Collingwood’s VFL program has long been a breeding ground for emerging AFL talent, and the appointment of Matthew Lokan fits perfectly within the club’s long-term strategy. With the senior side riding high on recent success in the AFL, including a renewed focus on youth development, the VFL team will play a critical role in sustaining that momentum.
Collingwood General Manager of Football, Graham Wright, expressed enthusiasm about Lokan’s appointment:
“Matthew understands what it means to wear the black and white. His connection to the club, his experience as both a player and a coach, and his leadership qualities make him the perfect person to lead our VFL program. He’s passionate about developing players, and that aligns exactly with where we want to take this team.”
Lokan’s task will be twofold: to build a competitive VFL side capable of contending for finals, and to ensure that the team functions as an effective pipeline for the AFL squad. It’s a challenge he seems more than ready to embrace.
“I want our VFL side to reflect the values of Collingwood — toughness, unity, and belief,” Lokan said. “We’ll focus on developing players who can step up to AFL level, but also on creating a culture of excellence and pride in the jumper. Every game, every session, every opportunity matters.”
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Fan Reaction: A Warm Return
As soon as the news broke, the Collingwood community erupted in celebration. Across X (formerly Twitter), Instagram, and fan forums, supporters expressed excitement about seeing a familiar face return.
“Loved Lokan as a player — great to see him back home!” wrote one fan. Another commented, “This is the Collingwood way — once a Magpie, always a Magpie.”
For many, Lokan’s story resonates with the club’s identity: resilience, loyalty, and a deep sense of belonging. The Magpie Army has long cherished figures who understand the emotional weight of the black-and-white stripes, and Lokan embodies that spirit perfectly.
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Building the Future
The 2026 VFL season will be pivotal for Collingwood, not only in terms of player development but also in establishing a unified culture across all levels of the club. With the AFL and VFL teams working in closer alignment, Lokan’s leadership will help bridge the gap between youth potential and senior opportunity.
His coaching philosophy, which emphasizes accountability, teamwork, and self-belief, is expected to resonate with both young draftees and experienced VFL campaigners. Under his guidance, Collingwood aims to cultivate a new wave of players who can seamlessly transition into the senior ranks when called upon.
Former Collingwood captain and club legend Scott Pendlebury praised the appointment, stating, “Lokes knows the game inside out. He’s been where these young guys are — fighting for every opportunity, learning to balance expectations, and earning respect through hard work. He’ll be a great influence.”
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A Full-Circle Moment
For Matthew Lokan, returning to Collingwood isn’t just another career move — it’s a homecoming filled with meaning. From his first senior debut in 2003 to his coaching return in 2026, the timeline reflects not just longevity in football, but growth, learning, and loyalty.
“It’s funny how things come full circle,” he said with a smile. “When I first walked into the club as a player, I was just trying to make my mark. Now, I get to help others do the same. That’s pretty special.”
As Collingwood continues to build on its storied legacy, Lokan’s return adds another heartfelt chapter to the club’s history. The Magpies are not just bringing back a former player — they’re reuniting with a part of their past to strengthen their future.
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The Black and White Spirit Lives On
As pre-season preparations begin and anticipation builds for the 2026 campaign, the message from Collingwood is clear: tradition and progress can coexist — and thrive — when the right people are at the helm.
With Matthew Lokan leading the VFL side, the Magpies are poised to continue their proud tradition of excellence, grit, and community. His journey — from young player in the early 2000s to experienced mentor two decades later — embodies everything Collingwood stands for.
In the end, it’s not just about the wins, the losses, or the stats. It’s about belonging. It’s about legacy. It’s about wearing the black and white with pride.
And for Matthew Lokan, that journey starts anew. 🖤🤍
