To start 2026, Collingwood's coach, leadership duo, and players shifted from a defensively focused game to a faster, more attacking approach, a change that solidified by the mid-season bye.

Dan McStay’s development flourished under Nathan Chapman, improving goal-kicking and contested marks while embracing a more effective use of a second ruck with guidance from Greg Stafford.

Leadership-driven culture change boosted team performance and forward line efficiency, increasing confidence and reducing the penalty impact when shots miss due to a higher overall scoring output.

At the bye, a second candid ‘heart-to-heart’ occurred, led by team leaders and coaches, acknowledging the need to balance defense with a more aggressive, higher-scoring game against top opponents.

Tactically, the side adopted quicker ball movement, multiple attack targets (Shooter, Skunk, Elliott, Daicos/De Goey), and aimed to push scoring beyond 100 points per game.

Dan McStay, once nearly dropped, credits a pivotal one-on-one talk with McRae for his rise in influence, highlighted by a four-goal performance against Brisbane in Round Four.

Overall, the story portrays how open communication, accountability, and adaptable coaching can drive a season-defining transformation.