Since being drafted to Collingwood with the fifth pick in 2005, Scott Pendlebury has consistently showcased exceptional skill, poise, and intelligence on the field. Renowned for his ability to maneuver seamlessly through tight spaces, Pendlebury is now on the brink of setting a new record for the most VFL/AFL games played, with his 433rd match approaching. At 38 years old, he continues to defy Father Time, adding yet another achievement to his storied career.
Spanning nearly two decades since his debut, Pendlebury’s career ranks as the fifth-longest in VFL/AFL history. With countless memorable performances and accolades to his name, it can be challenging to remember all his significant contributions. As he prepares to make history adorned in a gold No. 10 jersey, here are six remarkable moments that highlight Pendlebury’s illustrious path.
2006 – First Kick, First Goal
Pendlebury hinted at his future greatness during his debut, gathering the ball across half-back after 17 minutes. Under pressure from Brisbane’s Daniel Bradshaw, the new No. 16 calmly passed the ball to teammate Ryan Lonie, initiating a counterattack. This marked the beginning of Pendlebury’s record 5,491 handballs to date. However, the highlight of his debut came in the second quarter.
Demonstrating his trademark ability to find space in the forward 50, Pendlebury received a precise pass from Nathan Buckley. The 18-year-old executed a smooth left-foot kick, officially entering the ranks of the “first kick, first goal” club, while commentators eagerly noted his basketball background.
2007 – Breakthrough in Finals Series
Following a debut season marred by glandular fever, Pendlebury stepped up as a crucial player for the Magpies in his second year, participating in 23 matches. Now sporting the iconic No. 10, he showcased his talent in his inaugural final—a knockout match against Sydney, who had reached the previous two grand finals. Pendlebury achieved career highs with 24 disposals, six clearances, and a goal, propelling the Pies forward.
The next challenge was against reigning champions West Coast at Subiaco, where the match ended in a draw after regulation time. Pendlebury played a pivotal role in extra time, sealing the victory with a composed kick. The 19-year-old improved upon his previous bests, accumulating 26 disposals and seven clearances, solidifying his status as a rising star.
2010 – Grand Final Spotlight
Pendlebury had established himself as a prominent performer in high-stakes matches as Collingwood triumphed over reigning champions Geelong to reach the 2010 grand final. However, during the initial clash with St Kilda, he struggled, attributed to a stomach bug that caused him to lose six kilograms.
In the grand final replay, the Magpies raced to an early lead, with Pendlebury orchestrating play effectively. The final score of 56 points remains the largest victory margin in Collingwood’s 16 premierships. The 22-year-old earned the Norm Smith medal, delivering an outstanding performance with 29 disposals, 11 tackles, and six clearances.
2011 – Anzac Day Performance
Pendlebury has claimed the record for the most Anzac Day medals, with four to his name, beginning with his first in 2010. That year, he achieved 29 disposals, five clearances, and a goal in a victory over Essendon, but he surpassed himself the following year.
In a standout performance, the dreadlocked Pendlebury secured a second consecutive Anzac Day medal, excelling in every facet of the game. He recorded 34 disposals and eight clearances, scoring goals from both pockets. As the Pies pulled ahead, Pendlebury capped off his performance with a third goal from a set shot after the final siren, marking a memorable day.
2023 – The Hand of Scott
During one of the most exhilarating grand finals in recent years, Pendlebury’s composed presence was crucial in keeping Collingwood competitive against Brisbane. Amid retirement discussions, the 35-year-old turned back the clock, amassing 24 disposals, six clearances, and a goal.
However, it was his involvement in a pivotal play that secured his place in Magpies history once more. After Brisbane took the lead with under five minutes remaining, Pendlebury, alongside Nick Daicos and Jordan de Goey, took charge at the next center bounce. A quick handpass from Daicos allowed Pendlebury to unleash a left-foot kick into the forward 50, setting up De Goey for a swift response. The Pies held on for victory, marking Pendlebury’s second premiership, 13 years after his first.
2026 – Legacy Cemented
Anzac Day matches have been monumental for Pendlebury, including the 2024 encounter, where he became the first player in VFL/AFL history to reach 10,000 career disposals. In his 431st game in 2026, he returned to form with a career-high 43 disposals, earning the best-on-ground medal for an unprecedented fourth time.
As the Bombers threatened to upset the balance early in the third term, Pendlebury showcased his skill by maneuvering around two opponents to extend the Pies’ lead with a sublime finish. He scored his second goal—Collingwood’s final of the day—in the dying moments, completing a stunning performance that featured 10 marks, four clearances, and 19 score involvements, solidifying his Anzac Day legacy.
- AFL
- Collingwood
- Australian rules football
- Australia sport
- features
