Collingwood Football Club is set to honor one of its greatest icons in the most permanent way possible. A statue of Leigh Matthews, the legendary coach who led the Magpies to their historic 1990 Premiership, will soon be erected as a symbol of respect and recognition for his extraordinary contribution to the club.
A Figure Larger Than Life
Leigh Matthews is regarded not only as one of the greatest players in AFL history but also as the man who redefined Collingwood as a coach. When he took charge in the mid-1980s, the club was battling on multiple fronts – on the field, financially, and emotionally.
In 1990, Matthews famously guided Collingwood to its first Premiership in 32 years, ending what was often dubbed the “Colliwobbles.” The drought-breaking victory remains one of the most significant moments in the club’s 132-year history. For many fans, that single triumph elevated Matthews into immortal status.
A Statue for the Ages
The decision to immortalize Matthews with a statue has been met with overwhelming approval from Collingwood’s passionate fan base. The bronze figure will be placed prominently outside the Melbourne Cricket Ground, near other AFL legends, ensuring that every generation of supporters remembers his legacy.
Club president Jeff Browne said in a statement:
> “Leigh Matthews’ impact on Collingwood cannot be overstated. His leadership, resilience, and commitment to greatness shaped our club’s history and inspired generations. This statue will serve as a reminder of the man who gave Collingwood back its belief.”
Fans React with Emotion
The announcement has sparked an outpouring of emotion on social media. Many long-time supporters expressed gratitude that the club was finally honoring the man who ended decades of heartbreak.
“About time! Matthews gave us the happiest day of our lives in 1990.”
“This statue means so much more than bronze – it represents hope, strength, and Magpie pride.”
“He’s a Collingwood immortal. No statue is big enough for Leigh Matthews.”
For younger fans who never witnessed 1990, the statue will also serve as a way to connect with the club’s proud history.
Legacy Beyond Coaching
Matthews’ legacy is not only about a single Premiership. He instilled a culture of discipline, resilience, and professionalism that transformed Collingwood into a modern powerhouse. Even after his coaching tenure, his influence has remained strong across the AFL landscape, often cited as one of the game’s greatest thinkers.
His career achievements as a player and coach are extraordinary:
4-time Premiership player with Hawthorn
Norm Smith Medal winner
1990 Premiership coach with Collingwood
AFL Team of the Century (forward pocket)
AFL Hall of Fame Legend
Few in the game command the same universal respect.
A Moment That Will Last Forever
The unveiling ceremony is expected to draw thousands of Collingwood supporters, past players, and AFL dignitaries. The date is yet to be confirmed, but excitement is already building for what will be an emotional day of celebration.
As the black-and-white faithful gather to honor Matthews, the statue will stand as a permanent reminder that greatness is not only about winning – it’s about inspiring belief, uniting a community, and leaving a legacy that lasts forever.
Conclusion
For Collingwood, Leigh Matthews is more than a coach – he is a symbol of resilience, triumph, and pride. With the unveiling of his statue, the Magpies are ensuring that future generations will always remember the man who ended the longest wait in their history.
A statue made of bronze, but a legacy written in black and white.
