Collingwood AFLW captain Ruby Schleicher announces departure for West Coast Eagles

Consensus Summary

Collingwood AFLW captain Ruby Schleicher has announced her departure from the club at the end of the 2026 season, returning to her home state of Western Australia. The 28-year-old, who joined the Magpies in 2016 and has played 82 games, cited a desire to return home and pursue a new chapter in her career. Schleicher’s decision follows a season-ending shoulder injury sustained in round 9, which ABC reports occurred during a loss to St Kilda. Both outlets confirm she will likely sign with the West Coast Eagles, with ABC specifying a four-year contract offer, while 7NEWS notes broader interest from Perth clubs.

Schleicher’s departure marks the end of an era for Collingwood, a club struggling on and off the field. The Magpies have won just one game in the 2026 season after 10 rounds, and internal dysfunction has been widely reported. 7NEWS describes the club’s environment as 'dysfunctional,' with issues in list management, coaching, and medical treatment. Schleicher’s exit is part of a broader exodus, as up to eight to 10 uncontracted players may leave by year’s end, including standout players like Bri Davey and Tarni White, who is reportedly being pursued by four clubs outside Victoria.

Schleicher’s decision was influenced by both personal and professional factors. She expressed gratitude for her time at Collingwood, calling the club her home since moving at 18, but acknowledged the challenges of remaining in a difficult environment. Both outlets quote her statement, emphasizing her loyalty to Collingwood while acknowledging the need for a change. Collingwood CEO Craig Kelly acknowledged the club’s disappointment but respected her choice, highlighting her leadership and impact on the team. ABC notes that Schleicher initially turned down a one-year deal, while 7NEWS clarifies she was later offered a two-year extension, which she declined.

The reporting diverges slightly on the specifics of Schleicher’s future and Collingwood’s internal struggles. 7NEWS focuses on the broader instability at the club, including potential departures of key players and the risk of losing talent to other clubs. ABC, meanwhile, emphasizes the timing of her injury and the immediate scheduling of Collingwood’s remaining games, which are listed in detail. While both agree on Schleicher’s move to West Coast, 7NEWS suggests Fremantle is also in the mix, whereas ABC only mentions the Eagles. Additionally, 7NEWS highlights media commitments as complicating her departure, a factor not addressed by ABC.

With Schleicher’s exit confirmed, the focus now turns to Collingwood’s future. The club faces significant challenges, including on-field underperformance and internal strife, which 7NEWS reporter Tom Morris describes as a 'disaster' if not addressed quickly. ABC notes that vice-captain Jordy Allen’s contract extends to 2027, providing some stability, but the uncertainty surrounding other senior players like Bri Davey looms large. Schleicher’s departure is expected to accelerate discussions about the club’s direction, with both outlets suggesting that immediate action is needed to retain talent and improve the team’s competitive standing.