JOYFUL ARRIVAL: Collingwood captain Darcy Moore and girlfriend Dee Salmin welcome a baby named after a Magpies legend — fans can’t stop talking about the powerful tribute! 🖤🤍👶
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In a heartwarming announcement that has swept through the AFL community like a tidal wave of pure joy, Collingwood Football Club captain Darcy Moore and his girlfriend, Triple J radio host Dee Salmin, have officially welcomed their first child — a baby whose name has already captured the hearts of Magpie fans across the nation.
And what’s making the story even more emotional is the special meaning behind the baby’s name — a direct tribute to one of Collingwood’s most iconic legends, symbolizing not just Moore’s legacy, but the deep connection between past and present generations of the black-and-white army.
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A NEW CHAPTER FOR THE MOORE LEGACY 🖤🤍
The news broke earlier this morning after a close family source confirmed that Moore and Salmin quietly welcomed their baby over the weekend. While the couple had kept Dee’s pregnancy largely out of the public spotlight, the official reveal has come with both emotion and symbolism that speak volumes.
The baby’s name? “Nathan Darcy Moore Jr.” — a touching nod to Nathan Buckley, one of the club’s greatest players and former captain-coach, whom Darcy has long described as a personal mentor and inspiration.
According to reports, Darcy and Dee made the decision months ago after learning they were expecting a boy. “It felt right,” the insider said. “Darcy has always carried immense pride for Collingwood — not just for the team, but for the values and people who shaped him. Naming his son after one of the club’s legends is his way of continuing that spirit.”
Fans quickly connected the dots online, flooding X (formerly Twitter) and Instagram with congratulatory messages and heart emojis.
> “A baby Moore named after a Collingwood great? That’s history repeating itself in the most beautiful way,” one supporter wrote.
“The Moore bloodline keeps giving us magic — from Peter to Darcy, and now to the next generation!” another posted.
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INSIDE THE COUPLE’S JOURNEY 💫
Moore, 29, and Salmin, 28, made their relationship public in late 2023, when they appeared together at several high-profile events, including the NGV Gala and the Brownlow Medal ceremony, where Salmin’s stunning wedding-style gown sent the internet into a frenzy of speculation about whether the pair had secretly tied the knot.
The truth? The two have taken a modern, refreshingly candid approach to their relationship, discussing topics like independence, boundaries, and equality — themes that resonated with many fans but also sparked online debate.
Dee, known for her voice on Triple J’s youth programs, has often spoken about redefining traditional relationship roles, something that initially caught the media’s attention. But beyond the headlines, those close to them describe the pair as deeply grounded and authentic — qualities that have shone brightly throughout this new journey into parenthood.
In a brief message shared through their management team, the couple said:
> “We are beyond grateful. This little soul has already changed everything for us. We wanted his name to mean something — to carry history, strength, and love.”
The statement was accompanied by a black-and-white photo of the baby’s tiny hand gripping Darcy’s finger, a simple but powerful image that left Collingwood supporters teary-eyed.
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THE LEGEND THEY HONORED 💬
For those unfamiliar, Nathan Buckley represents more than just a name in Collingwood history — he embodies decades of leadership, resilience, and class. From his Brownlow-winning brilliance on the field to his dignified tenure as coach, Buckley’s influence on players like Moore has been immeasurable.
In fact, Moore has previously spoken about Buckley’s guidance during his early years at the club.
> “He’s someone who believed in me when I was still figuring myself out as a player and person,” Moore said in a 2021 interview. “That kind of mentorship never leaves you.”
By naming his son in Buckley’s honor, Moore hasn’t just paid tribute to the past — he’s woven a legacy thread that ties his family’s long history with Collingwood (following in the footsteps of his father, Peter Moore, another club great) into the next generation.
Buckley himself reportedly reached out privately to congratulate the couple, expressing both surprise and deep gratitude at the gesture. Sources close to the former coach said he was “genuinely touched” and even joked that “the baby’s already destined for a Magpies jumper.”
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A WAVE OF LOVE FROM THE FOOTY WORLD 🌏
As soon as the story hit the media, players, coaches, and fans alike began sharing messages of support. Collingwood’s official account posted a simple caption —
> “Welcome to the world, little Magpie. The legacy continues.”
The post included a collage of three images: a baby blanket featuring the club logo, Darcy holding Dee’s hand in the hospital, and a shot of the newborn’s tiny Magpies beanie.
Teammates like Nick Daicos and Scott Pendlebury were among the first to comment, offering heartfelt congratulations. Even AFL fans from rival clubs chimed in, acknowledging the touching sentiment behind the name.
> “I’m a Carlton fan, but credit where it’s due — that’s a classy tribute,” one fan admitted under the post.
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WHAT’S NEXT FOR DARCY AND DEE 💭
While the couple have yet to share official photos or interviews, insiders say they plan to take a short break from public events to focus on family time. Moore, who recently wrapped up another dominant AFL season leading Collingwood to the finals, is said to be “embracing fatherhood with the same calm, thoughtful energy he brings to the field.”
Meanwhile, Dee Salmin is expected to return to her radio show early next year, with Triple J producers already teasing a “special episode” where she’ll share her experiences as a new mum.
For fans, this story is more than just a celebrity baby announcement — it’s a full-circle moment for one of Australia’s most storied football families. From Peter Moore’s iconic 1979 Brownlow win to Darcy’s inspirational leadership today, the Moore name continues to stand as a symbol of dedication, grace, and black-and-white pride.
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FINAL WORD 💬
In a world often filled with sporting controversy and online noise, this story has reminded everyone what makes footy culture so special — family, history, and heart.
As Collingwood supporters proudly say: “Once a Magpie, always a Magpie.”
Now, thanks to Darcy Moore and Dee Salmin’s newest arrival, that legacy has a brand-new name — and a future as bright as the MCG lights.
🖤🤍
Welcome to the world, baby Nathan Moore — the next chapter of Collingwood’s great story has just begun.
