Full Breakdown
Nathan Murphy to Join Gold Coast Suns as Development Coach in 2027
By Drooid · · How we work
Core Move: Murphy and Pendlebury Head to Gold Coast
Collingwood development coach Nathan Murphy has accepted a development/assistant-coaching position with the Gold Coast Suns, scheduled to begin in 2027. The appointment reunites him with former premiership teammate Scott Pendlebury, who also secured a coaching role with the Suns for the same season.
Background: Playing Career, Injury, and Coaching Path
Murphy, 27, concluded his AFL playing career after the 2023 Grand Final, where he was substituted at quarter-time following a head injury. The injury led to a medically-retired status early in the 2024 season. Since retiring, Murphy remained with Collingwood, contributing to the club’s development program, serving as the VFL team’s backline coach, and acting as a development coach throughout 2026.
Coaching Roles and Timeline
After two years on Collingwood’s coaching panel, Murphy’s move to the Suns marks his first senior-level appointment outside the Magpies organization. The role is described as a development and assistant coaching position, aligning with the Suns’ strategy to bolster their coaching staff ahead of the 2027 season.
Official Responses
Collingwood confirmed that Murphy’s departure is amicable and highlighted his contributions to player development during his tenure. The Gold Coast Suns announced that Murphy’s expertise in defensive coaching and player growth will complement Pendlebury’s experience, aiming to strengthen the club’s on-field performance.
Key Figures
- Nathan Murphy — former Collingwood midfielder, medically retired in 2024, development coach for Collingwood (2025-2026), joining Gold Coast Suns in 2027.
- Scott Pendlebury — former Collingwood captain and premiership teammate of Murphy, also moving to the Suns as a coach for 2027.