Craig McRae and his wife Gabrielle have been named Footy’s Power Couple of the Year, a recognition that reflects not only their achievements in the sport but the strength of their partnership off the field. Fans and fellow professionals alike have praised the couple for the balance they bring to each other’s lives, and for the quiet yet impactful way they support the Collingwood Football Club.
Craig’s journey in Australian Rules football is well known. As a former player for the Brisbane Lions, he experienced the highs of premiership success before transitioning into coaching. His rise to senior coach at Collingwood has been marked by a combination of strategic skill, calm leadership, and an ability to connect with players on a personal level. Within just a few seasons, he guided the team to remarkable improvements, culminating in a premiership that reignited excitement around the club.
Behind every success, however, there has been a partner who shares in the triumphs and the challenges. Gabrielle McRae is often described by friends and colleagues as a source of stability and perspective. She is present but never intrusive, offering thoughtful advice and support when Craig faces tough decisions or the pressures of coaching at the elite level. Those close to the couple say her influence has been instrumental in helping Craig maintain perspective, balance, and focus, even during the most intense parts of the season.
The award recognizes the couple for their combined impact on the sport, both on and off the field. It highlights not just Craig’s tactical achievements and leadership but also the personal qualities that Gabrielle brings to their partnership: patience, insight, and encouragement. Together, they exemplify a model of success where professional accomplishment and personal integrity go hand in hand.
Fans have responded enthusiastically to the announcement. Many took to social media to share their admiration, praising the couple for their authenticity and their visible dedication to family and community. Unlike typical sports headlines, this recognition is rooted in a story of character as much as performance. Observers note that Craig’s ability to lead with empathy and Gabrielle’s role as a supportive, grounded presence have created an environment where both excellence and humanity thrive.
Those who know the couple personally often remark on their understated nature. While they are comfortable in the public eye, they also prioritize privacy and family life. It is this balance that has made them relatable figures to fans — people who succeed at the highest level while remaining approachable, thoughtful, and connected to their values. Their story resonates because it feels real; it shows that the people behind the headlines are also living lives of care, reflection, and partnership.
The moment they received the award, Craig and Gabrielle were reportedly both proud and humbled. They shared the occasion quietly, celebrating together with close family and friends, embodying the very qualities that earned them recognition. The title of Footy’s Power Couple of the Year is more than a trophy. It is a reflection of years of dedication, trust, and mutual respect that has quietly shaped not only a premiership-winning team but also a life together built on support and shared vision.
Craig and Gabrielle McRae’s story serves as a reminder that the greatest victories in sport are often achieved not in isolation but with the steady guidance of those who stand beside us. Their recognition as Footy’s Power Couple of the Year is a celebration of partnership, perseverance, and the kind of leadership that inspires both on the field and in life.