Fremantle assistant Matthew Boyd to leave the Dockers as family ties draw him back to Collingwood

Fremantle have lost defensive coach Matthew Boyd, with the Western Bulldogs champion set to move back over east for family reasons.

Boyd — who will return to an assistant coach role at Collingwood — joined the Dockers in 2021 after a stint with the Pies and has been an integral part of forming their back line overseeing the development of players like 2024 All-Australian Luke Ryan and rising star Josh Draper.

He is the second former Bulldog to depart his role at the Dockers in recent months after legend Bob Murphy also said he would be leaving the club for personal reasons.

Football boss Joe Brierty thanked Boyd for his service to Fremantle.

“Following the season we have been in discussions with Matthew about the potential for he and his family to return home to Melbourne. It’s never easy because Matthew has invested his heart and soul into our club over the past four years,” Brierty said.

“Ultimately, we are a family club and we respect that Matthew needs to do what is best for his family and he will be remembered fondly for his contribution.

“On behalf of the players, coaches, and the entire Fremantle Football Club, we wish Matthew, his wife Kate and the kids all the very best for the future and thank them for all they have given to our club.”

Boyd said it was a tough call to depart the Freo family.

“It has been an extremely difficult decision to make,” Boyd said.

“My family and I have loved our time as part of the Freo family and it is with a heavy heart that we will be leaving the Club.

“I truly believe this group can do amazing things, and my family and I will all be watching on with great interest.

“There will always be a spot for the Freo family in our hearts.”

Collingwood praised Boyd for reaching another level in his time at Fremantle and look forward to welcoming him back to their nest.

We welcome Matthew and his family back to our Club,” Bolton said.

“Matthew started his coaching career with Collingwood and has since gone on to further develop himself under Justin Longmuir at Fremantle.

“He has experienced great success as a player and has spent six years as a highly regarded assistant coach.

“We are really pleased to have Matthew join our program and we extend that welcome to his wife Kate and their three children.”