After retiring from football in 1936, Collins made a return with newly formed Southern League club Colchester United in 1937. He made his debut in Colchester's first-ever match on 28 August 1937, when they were defeated 3–0 by Yeovil & Petters United at The Huish. However, he became the first player to be dropped by manager Ted Davis.
Following his retirement from football in 1936, Collins rejoined the sport with a new team, Colchester United, in 1937. He made his first appearance for the club on August 28, 1937, when they suffered a 3-0 defeat to Yeovil & Petters United at The Huish, but was subsequently dropped by manager Ted Davis.