Josh Daicos and his longtime girlfriend Annalise Dalins stunned the entire AFL community with a completely unexpected announcement immediately after Collingwood Magpies’ hard-fought 92-82 victory over the West Coast Eagles in Round 11.
“WE’VE BEEN WAITING FOR THE RIGHT MOMENT… AND IT’S FINALLY HERE!” Josh declared with a beaming smile, his voice echoing with pure joy as he stood in the players’ family area surrounded by teammates and loved ones.
What the couple revealed next left fans speechless, flooding social media with disbelief, congratulations, and emotional reactions across Australia and beyond. In a heartfelt moment captured on video, Josh and Annalise shared news that blended perfectly with the emotion of Collingwood’s important win, creating one of the most memorable post-match scenes in recent AFL history.
The Victory That Set the Stage for Joy
Collingwood entered Marvel Stadium looking to bounce back strongly after a couple of inconsistent results. West Coast fought bravely, but the Magpies’ class eventually shone through in a tense, high-stakes contest. Josh Daicos played a key role in the midfield, contributing 28 disposals and helping drive the team forward during critical moments.
The match was tight throughout, with both sides trading goals in an arm-wrestle that had fans on the edge of their seats. Collingwood’s superior finishing in the final quarter proved decisive, securing the 10-point victory and lifting the Magpies back into strong contention for a top-four finish.
As the final siren sounded, the Collingwood players celebrated on the field, but the biggest surprise was yet to come. While most eyes were still focused on the on-field huddle, Josh made his way quickly to the family section where Annalise was waiting. What happened next turned a good win into an unforgettable night for the Daicos family and the wider AFL community.
With cameras rolling and teammates gathering around, Josh took Annalise’s hand and addressed the small group of family and close friends. His words carried both excitement and emotion:
“We’ve been waiting for the right moment… and it’s finally here! Annalise and I are thrilled to announce that we are expecting our first child. A new little Daicos is on the way!”
The revelation sent waves of shock and joy through everyone present. Annalise, glowing with happiness, confirmed the news while resting her hand gently on her stomach. The couple explained they had been keeping the pregnancy private for the first trimester but felt the time was right to share it after such a special team victory.
Teammates erupted in cheers, with Nick Daicos — Josh’s younger brother — among the first to embrace the couple. The emotional scenes were quickly shared across social media platforms, sparking an explosion of reactions from fans who were completely caught off guard by the timing and the news.
Josh and Annalise: A Love Story Built on Support
Josh Daicos and Annalise Dalins have been together for several years, maintaining a relatively private relationship despite Josh’s high profile as a Collingwood star. Annalise, a dedicated professional in the health and wellness sector, has been a constant source of strength for Josh throughout his AFL career.
Their journey together has been marked by quiet support through injuries, tough losses, and the intense pressure that comes with playing in a famous football family. Friends describe them as a grounded, loving couple who have always prioritized family values.
The pregnancy news adds a beautiful new chapter to their story. Many fans pointed out how fitting it was for the announcement to come after a hard-earned win, symbolizing new beginnings both on and off the field for the Daicos brothers and the Magpies.
Nick Daicos, who himself had an emotional tribute to his father earlier in the same match, was visibly moved by his brother’s news. The Daicos family, already known for their close bond, now prepares to welcome the next generation.
Fan and AFL Community Reactions
Within minutes of the announcement video circulating online, social media erupted. Hashtags such as #DaicosBaby, #JoshDaicos, #CollingwoodFamily, and #NewDaicos quickly trended across Australia. Fans from all clubs expressed overwhelming joy and support for the couple.
Messages poured in from across the AFL world:
“Couldn’t be happier for Josh and Annalise! What a way to celebrate a win. Congratulations!”
“Another little Daicos running around soon? This is the best news!”
Even rival supporters joined the celebration, acknowledging the positive moment in a sport often dominated by on-field drama. Former players and commentators praised the couple for choosing such a wholesome way to share their personal milestone.
The AFL Players’ Association and Collingwood Football Club both issued statements congratulating the couple and emphasizing the club’s strong support for player families during important life moments.
What This Means for Josh Daicos and Collingwood
For Josh, the news brings added motivation as the season enters its critical middle phase. Becoming a father for the first time often transforms athletes, giving them fresh perspective and drive. Collingwood coach Craig McRae welcomed the announcement, noting that strong family foundations help players perform at their best.
The Magpies will ensure Josh receives all the necessary flexibility and support as he balances fatherhood with his football commitments. With Nick Daicos also shining brightly this season, the Daicos brothers continue to be central to Collingwood’s success.
On the field, Collingwood’s victory over West Coast keeps them firmly in the premiership conversation. The emotional lift from Josh’s announcement could provide an extra spark for the playing group heading into the next challenging block of fixtures.
The Heartwarming Details Behind the Announcement
According to those close to the couple, they had planned to wait a few more weeks before going public but the joy of the victory created the perfect atmosphere. Annalise has been feeling well throughout the early stages of pregnancy and is excited to experience this new journey alongside Josh’s football career.
The couple shared that they found out the gender of the baby recently but chose to keep that detail private for now, focusing instead on sharing the happiness with their extended AFL family and fans.
This announcement also highlights the evolving nature of modern AFL players’ lives. More athletes are starting families during their careers, and clubs have improved significantly in supporting them through these personal milestones.
In a sporting landscape often filled with controversy and pressure, stories like Josh and Annalise’s bring warmth and humanity to the forefront. Fans connect deeply with players who share their real-life moments, making the athletes feel more relatable and grounded.
The timing — right after an emotional win against West Coast — made the news even more powerful. It transformed what could have been just another match result into a celebration of life, family, and new beginnings.
Mental health advocates also praised the openness, noting that sharing positive personal news helps normalize discussions around work-life balance for elite athletes.
Looking Ahead With Excitement
As the 2026 AFL season continues, all eyes will be on Josh Daicos both for his on-field performances and this exciting new chapter in his personal life. The prospect of a new baby in the Daicos family has already created buzz about future junior football stars and family days at the club.
For Annalise, the focus will shift toward preparing for motherhood while continuing her own career. The couple has expressed gratitude for the love and support they have received and asked for privacy as they navigate the coming months.
Collingwood fans are already dreaming of a successful season capped off with a premiership — and perhaps a special baby celebration at the end of it all.
In the end, Josh Daicos’ announcement reminded everyone why sport matters beyond the scoreboard. It’s about moments, memories, and milestones shared with the people who matter most.
From a tense victory on the field to the pure joy of expecting a first child, this Round 11 weekend will be remembered as one filled with hope, love, and the beautiful surprises that make life — and footy — so special.
The entire AFL community joins in congratulating Josh and Annalise on their wonderful news. A new Daicos is coming, and the future looks brighter than ever.
