Nathan Buckley’s partner Brodie Ryan pays emotional tribute to partner and ex-Collingwood coach Nathan Buckley

Brodie Ryan has praised her partner and ex-Collingwood coach Nathan Buckley’s leadership over three decades with the club, saying it contributed to Saturday’s emotional premiership win.

Brodie Ryan has paid a deep and emotional tribute to her partner, former Collingwood coach Nathan Buckley, after the club’s premiership win.

Ryan, who accompanied Buckley to the game, said she wanted to pass on gratitude for his efforts in aiding the team’s success.

She posted videos of Buckley being mobbed by fans outside the MCG after Saturday’s game.

“Saturday was a day filled with mixed emotions for me as a lifelong Collingwood supporter,’’ Ryan wrote on Instagram.

Nathan Buckley and Brodie Ryan at the 2023 Brownlow Medal on September 25, 2023. Picture: Dylan Burns/AFL Photos

Brodie Ryan and Nathan Buckley at the grand final

“It was undeniably one of the best days of my life, witnessing our beloved team bring home the premiership and to watch it with @nc — buckley.

“But at the same time, it was tough to watch the person I love, our previous coach, experience such a range of intense emotions.

“To leave the stadium and to see you be met by these scenes of love and gratitude from our amazing supporters solidified to me and hopefully to you that this is not just my biased opinion.”

Ryan, a business manager in women’s health at Epworth, said Buckley, who was coach when the Magpies narrowly lost the grand final in 2018, should feel proud.

He admitted he was openly sobbing after the final siren.

“For the past three decades as a player, captain, assistant coach, and past coach of our club, you have left an indelible mark on Collingwood’s history,’’ Ryan continued.

“Your leadership both on and off the field has been nothing short of extraordinary.

“We are all so grateful and proud of what you (and fly (Craig McRae)) have done to get us here.

“As a Collingwood supporter, I want to extend my heartfelt gratitude to you. Thank you for everything you have done for our club. We love you Bucks. XO.”