In a year of constant and often abrupt change being able to hold on to the rituals of watching our teams play has been variously a joy, reassuring and a relief.

In turn, the certainty of your support as a member has been a source of pride for our athletes and staff; something to stand with and for.

To be informed this week that in an often crowd-less, covid-ravaged time our membership grew in 2021 – to 82,527 – reinforced to everyone at the club the enduring nature of your loyalty. What you mean when you say you belong to Collingwood.  

From all of us, thank you for your belief and lasting commitment.

We have had some notable moments in 2021 and some that have challenged everyone’s faith.

Change isn’t always easy but defeating Melbourne at the SCG in June on the occasion of Nathan Buckley’s last match as senior coach was a farewell to remember. Taking Richmond and West Coast down with many of our draftees leading the way gave us evidence to believe in tomorrow. Next year’s campaign is already underway.

Witnessing our AFLW side’s journey to a preliminary final and our VFLW side strive for an undefeated season and back-to-back premierships was to know that excellence is not simply a word on a wall.  

The flourish of a finish from our netballers and their 11^th hour finals push made the national competition jump.

It is doubtful, though, that any triumph or glimpse of a promising future was more important to Collingwood in 2021 than the collective and steadfast show of strength from our members.

This is the strength that allows Collingwood to continue to stand on its own two feet, financially and otherwise. It is the strength that enables our athletes to prepare in the very best facilities. It is a strength that inspires the entire club.

In 2021, we were made by you.

Side by Side.