The 28-year-old's departure comes as several senior Collingwood players have voiced frustration around the direction of the women's side. Schleicher was originally offered a one-year contract extension, later bumped up to two years, as she weighed up leaving the club and the extensive media opportunities she has in Melbourne.
Her decision arrives at a pivotal time for the club, with a number of senior players out of contract at the end of 2026, including Tarni White, Sarah Rowe, Mattea Breed, Lauren Butler and Bri Davey. Vice-captain Jordyn Allen signed a three-year deal in 2024, but tried to seek a trade to the Brisbane Lions last year.
"I can't put into words the gratitude I feel for this place and the role it has played in helping me grow up," Schleicher said in a statement. "Being an 18-year-old coming across, those first couple of years away from home, as someone who is really close to their family, was something I struggled with."
"This has been a really tough decision for me to make but one that is ultimately the best for where I am in my life and career," she said. Schleicher said the family Collingwood had become, including staff, admin, the footy department and her teammates, meant so much, and that she would always consider herself a Collingwood person, thanking the "Magpie Army" for embracing her.
Collingwood CEO Craig Kelly thanked Schleicher for her contribution and praised her leadership skills, saying she had represented the club "with great resilience and character" and played a key role in supporting the next generation of players on and off the field.
"While we are disappointed to see Ruby depart our club, we respect her decision to return home," Kelly said.