๐๐ค๐ค ๐๐๐๐๐ ๐๐๐๐๐๐๐๐๐๐ ๐๐๐๐๐๐๐๐๐ ๐๐๐ ๐๐๐๐๐๐๐๐๐๐ โ ๐ ๐๐๐๐๐๐๐๐๐๐๐ ๐๐๐๐๐๐ ๐ ๐๐๐๐๐๐ ๐
In an emotional moment that marks the end of an extraordinary era, Collingwood Football Club champion Scott Pendlebury has officially announced his retirement from the AFL, closing the curtain on one of the most remarkable careers in Australian football history.
After more than 380 games, a premiership, six All-Australian selections, and an AFL record for most disposals, Pendlebury leaves behind a legacy that will be felt for generations. His poise, leadership, and football intelligence have defined an era at Collingwood โ and made him one of the most respected figures in the game.
Pendlebury, 37, made the announcement in front of teammates, coaches, and family at the Holden Centre earlier today, holding back tears as he reflected on a journey that began when he was drafted in 2005. โItโs been the greatest privilege of my life to wear the black and white,โ he said. โThis club has given me everything โ lifelong friendships, incredible memories, and the opportunity to play the game I love in front of the best fans in the world.โ
Known for his calmness under pressure and unmatched vision on the field, Pendleburyโs style of play earned him the nickname โThe Maestroโ among fans and commentators. His ability to slow down the game and make split-second decisions turned him into one of the most influential midfielders of the modern era.
Collingwood coach Craig McRae praised Pendleburyโs professionalism and impact both on and off the field. โScott is the embodiment of what it means to be a Magpie,โ McRae said. โHe led through actions, inspired through words, and gave everything for this jumper. His influence on the next generation of Collingwood players โ and on this club as a whole โ canโt be overstated.โ
Teammates also shared emotional tributes. Captain Darcy Moore called Pendlebury โthe ultimate role model.โ โHe showed us that leadership isnโt about shouting the loudest โ itโs about composure, empathy, and consistency,โ Moore said. โWeโve all learned so much from him.โ
Pendleburyโs career is filled with highlights: leading Collingwood to the 2010 premiership, earning the Norm Smith Medal, and serving as captain for nine consecutive seasons โ the longest in club history. But beyond statistics and silverware, it was his humility and class that truly defined his legacy.
In his farewell message, Pendlebury thanked his family, especially his wife Alex and their two children. โTheyโve been my rock through it all. Footy has given me a lot, but nothing compares to coming home to them.โ
As the Collingwood faithful absorb the news, tributes continue to pour in from across the AFL landscape. From rival clubs to past legends, everyone agrees on one thing โ Scott Pendlebury leaves the game as one of its greatest ever.
While the boots may be hung up, his influence will live on forever at Collingwood.
A champion, a leader, and a legend โ Scott Pendleburyโs name is now etched among the immortals of the game. ๐ค๐ค
