Collingwood Magpies Training Schedule & The Holden Centre
So, you want to see the Magpies in action before they run out onto the 'G? Smart move. There’s nothing quite like watching the black and white stripes being put through their paces, getting a glimpse of Fly’s game plan, and feeling the buzz around the club up close. Whether you’re a lifelong member of the Magpie Army or new to the flock, knowing when and where to catch training is key.
This guide will walk you through everything you need to know: from finding the official training schedule to navigating the club’s home at the Holden Centre. We’ll cover how to plan your visit, what to expect, and how to make the most of the experience. Let’s get you trackside.
What You’ll Need Before You Go
A little prep makes the day run smoothly. Here’s your essentials list:
Your Passion: A bit of black and white spirit goes a long way!
A Reliable Internet Connection: Training times can be fluid. You’ll need to check for last-minute updates.
The Club’s Official Channels: This is your primary source of truth. Bookmark the Collingwood Football Club website and their social media accounts (especially Twitter/X and Instagram).
Transport & Parking Info: The Holden Centre is in a busy area. Know your options.
Appropriate Gear: Think comfy shoes, a hat, sunscreen, and a water bottle. Melbourne weather is… unpredictable.
Patience & Respect: Remember, this is their workplace. Players and staff are focused, but often happy to acknowledge loyal supporters.
Your Step-by-Step Guide to Catching the Pies at Training
Step 1: Find the Official Training Schedule
Your first and most important job is to get the right intel. The club’s main training sessions (often on Wednesday/Thursday during the season) are usually advertised, but they are subject to change based on recovery, travel, and strategy.
Primary Source: Head straight to the Collingwood Football Club website. Navigate to the ‘News’ or ‘Team’ section. Official training announcements will be posted here, often as part of a weekly preview. This is also where you’ll find any information about open training sessions or fan events.
Secondary Source: Follow the club’s official social media accounts. A last-minute change due to weather or a shift to an indoor session will be communicated here first. A simple “Training closed to the public today” post can save you a trip.
Pro Tip: During the pre-season (November-February), training is more frequent and often more open. It’s a fantastic time to see the full squad, including new recruits, building fitness. Keep an eye on our /collingwood-news-updates hub for consolidated info on these sessions.
Step 2: Plan Your Journey to The Holden Centre
The heart of the club is no longer Vic Park; it’s the state-of-the-art Holden Centre at Olympic Park, nestled between the Melbourne Cricket Ground and AAMI Park. The address is: Olympic Blvd, Melbourne VIC 3000.
Public Transport is King: It’s the easiest way. Catch a train to Richmond Station or Jolimont Station – both are a short 10-minute walk. Trams along Wellington Parade or Bridge Road will also get you close.
Driving & Parking: If you must drive, be prepared. All-day parking is expensive and limited. There are some commercial car parks near the MCG (like the one on Jolimont Street), but street parking is very restricted. Factor in extra time and cost.
Viewing Areas: General public viewing is typically from the grassy banks or designated areas along Olympic Boulevard, outside the main fences. You get a great view of the oval and the players.
Step 3: What to Expect on the Day
Training is a spectacle of skill, fitness, and structure. Here’s a rundown:
Timing: Arrive early. Players often start with individual skills or rehab work. The main, most watchable part of training (the “match simulation” drills) usually happens about 45-60 minutes after the listed start time.
The Structure: You’ll see drills focusing on clean hands, precise kicking, defensive structures, and game scenarios. Watch how Coach McRae and his team direct traffic – it’s a masterclass in modern AFL strategy.
Spotting the Stars: This is the fun part. See Nick Daicos weave through traffic, watch Scott Pendlebury (“Pendles”) use that timeless vision in a drill, and admire Darcy Moore’s leadership down back. You might also see players in rehab vests working separately – a common sight in a long season.
Atmosphere: It’s generally relaxed. You’ll hear coaches’ whistles, the thump of the ball, and the chatter of players. The Magpie Army is usually out in good numbers, especially before a big game like the Anzac Day clash.
Step 4: Post-Training Opportunities (The Holy Grail)
This is what many come for. After the main session concludes, players will often come over to the fences for signing and photos, especially for young supporters.
Be Patient and Polite: Wait for the session to be fully finished. Players will usually indicate when they’re heading over.
Have Your Item Ready: A pen, a hat, a guernsey, or a football. Something official is always appreciated.
Keep it Brief: A quick “Great game last week,” or “Good luck on the weekend” is perfect. They have schedules to keep.
Respect Boundaries: If a player heads straight inside, they might have treatment or a meeting. Don’t call out or be disappointed.
Step 5: Soak Up the Club History
While you’re in the area, make a day of it. The Holden Centre itself is a monument to the club’s past and present.
Look for the Tributes: Around the outside, you’ll see plaques and imagery celebrating premierships, Copeland Trophy winners, and legends.
Visit the ‘G: Just over the bridge is the Melbourne Cricket Ground, the scene of so many famous Magpie triumphs, including the unforgettable 2023 flag. Take a moment to look at the empty stands and imagine them full.
A Pilgrimage to Vic Park: For the true historian, a trip to Victoria Park in Abbotsford is a must. While it’s no longer the home ground, the spirit remains. It’s a powerful link to the club’s roots. (Want to explore more iconic club locations? Check out our /collingwood-magpies-2024-season-preview for a deeper dive into the venues that define our season.)
Pro Tips & Common Mistakes to Avoid
✅ DO: Check, double-check, and triple-check the schedule on the morning of your planned visit. Things change.
✅ DO: Bring sunscreen and water, even on cloudy days. There’s little shade.
✅ DO: Supervise children closely near the fences and in the busy precinct.
❌ DON’T: Call out to players during drills or while they are receiving instruction from coaches. It’s distracting.
❌ DON’T: Expect guaranteed signatures or photos. It’s a bonus, not a promise.
❌ DON’T: Bring items that could be considered hazardous or inappropriate for seeking autographs. Use common sense. (Speaking of safety, if you’re tailgating, always handle fuels responsibly. For a relevant guide on safety, you can read about disposing-of-paraffin properly.)
❌ DON’T: Assume all sessions are open. Main training usually is, but shorter “captain’s runs” or recovery sessions the day before a game are almost always closed.
Your Quick-Fire Checklist Summary
Before you head out to follow the black and white stripes, run through this list:
- Confirmed the Schedule: Checked the Collingwood Football Club website and social media for the official, up-to-date training time and status.
- Planned Your Trip: Researched public transport routes or parking options for the Holden Centre (Olympic Blvd, Melbourne).
- Packed the Essentials: Comfy shoes, weather-appropriate clothing (sun/rain protection), water, and any items for signing.
- Set Expectations: Understood that viewing is from outside the fence, and player interaction is a post-session possibility, not a certainty.
- Researched the Area: Noted points of interest like the MCG or planned a visit to Victoria Park to complete your Magpie day out.
- Charged Your Phone: For photos, maps, and last-minute schedule checks!
Following this guide will ensure you have a fantastic experience watching your Magpies prepare for battle. There’s a unique energy around the club, and seeing the dedication up close only deepens the connection to the team. Now, get out there and enjoy it! Go Pies
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