Collingwood legend Scott Pendlebury is defying time as he embarks on his 20th AFL pre-season, bringing his mix of experience, leadership, and continued hunger for improvement.
Speaking at the Magpies' pre-season session on Monday, Pendlebury shared insights on his preparation, his evolving role, and his belief in Collingwood's premiership potential in 2025.
The 36-year-old, coming off a full off-season without interruption, was eager to hit the ground running. Last year, nose surgery sidelined Pendlebury for several weeks, limiting his preparation. Now, with a clean bill of health, the six-time All-Australian is experimenting with new techniques to enhance his game.
“I've tried to get quicker,” Pendlebury said.
“Always trying to add little bits to my game. It's good to have a full bill of health and be able to train straight away. You can do some different stuff.”
Despite decades of experience, Pendlebury admitted the excitement and nerves of returning to the club never wane.
“You get nervous for day one, but it's always exciting just to come back in and be around the people, the players," he added.
Critics have questioned whether the Magpies' ageing roster, the oldest in the competition, can contend for another premiership. Pendlebury, however, dismissed these concerns, emphasising the importance of experience in high-pressure situations.
“We're an experienced team - you watch in finals, the experience lifts, and the sides that have been together a long period of time challenge and go deep,” he said.
“If we put a good summer together, there's no reason why we can't challenge again.”
Pendlebury referenced Geelong's success with an older list as proof that seasoned teams can still thrive.
Collingwood bolstered its squad during the trade period, acquiring Dan Houston, Harry Perryman, and veteran forward Tim Membrey. The additions provide versatility and depth, something Pendlebury believes will benefit the team in 2025.
“With Harry and Dan coming in, there'll be a few of us that get asked to move around—half-back, midfield, wing, half-forward, whatever it is,” Pendlebury said.
“It gives us great depth and flexibility. If we need to change something up, we've got a number of guys with different dynamics.”
The Magpies also welcomed new draftees, including Joel Cochran and Charlie West, adding youth and pace to their experienced core.
As one of the game's most decorated players, Pendlebury is embracing an increased coaching role during the pre-season. Working closely with Craig McRae, Pendlebury is helping to mentor the next generation while still contributing on-field.
“Yeah, a little bit more of the coaching side of stuff on the down days for us,” he explained.
“I spoke to Fly (McRae) about that last year, and he was really open to it.”
After a disappointing 2024 campaign where Collingwood missed finals, the club is focused on redemption. Pendlebury emphasised that the team is fully committed to chasing premiership glory.
“The way I've looked at every year is in isolation,” he said.
“For us, it's all in on 2025. See how good we can be.”
Whether playing, mentoring, or coaching, the Magpies' games record-holder remains central to their quest for another flag, and will again be a pivotal piece next season.
