In a fitting tribute to one of the AFL’s most enduring and influential figures, Champion Data has officially named Collingwood’s Scott Pendlebury as the league’s Most Respected Midfielder. This recognition crowns a stellar career marked by poise, consistency, leadership, and unwavering professionalism, solidifying Pendlebury’s status not just as a Collingwood icon, but as a true legend of the game.
At 37 years old, Pendlebury continues to defy expectations, combining football intelligence with elite decision-making to remain a dominant presence in the engine room. His ability to adapt to the modern game while still influencing matches at the highest level is a testament to his preparation, vision, and unmatched footy IQ.
Champion Data’s metric-based accolade is not just about possessions or impact stats—it’s about trust. Among coaches, teammates, and even opposition players, Pendlebury’s name repeatedly surfaces when respect is measured. Whether it’s a clutch clearance, a calm sidestep under pressure, or a pinpoint pass to change the tempo, he executes with a level of precision that few can match.
A Career Worth Celebrating
Games Played: Over 390 senior AFL games
Premiership Player: 2010
Six-time All-Australian
Five-time Copeland Trophy winner (Collingwood Best & Fairest)
Record games captain at Collingwood (2014–2022)
AFL Record Holder for Most Career Disposals
What makes Pendlebury’s career even more remarkable is his journey. A former elite junior basketballer, he brought a spatial awareness and composure rarely seen in AFL midfielders. From his debut in 2006, he quickly became the heartbeat of Collingwood’s midfield, helping the Magpies transition through generations of players while maintaining elite standards year after year.
Collingwood President Jeff Browne praised Pendlebury’s latest accolade:
“Scott has always been more than just a footballer for our club—he’s been a standard-bearer. This recognition reflects not just his stats but his character and influence on and off the field. He is, and always will be, a Collingwood great.”
A Respected Legacy
Pendlebury’s legacy stretches beyond the black and white stripes. He’s been a role model to young players across the competition and a cornerstone of stability in a club that has seen its share of highs and lows. In an era defined by speed and chaos, Pendlebury has offered calm—and class.
As he moves toward the twilight of his career, this accolade from Champion Data feels like the perfect punctuation mark on a body of work that has inspired teammates, tormented opponents, and delighted footy fans for nearly two decades.
Congratulations, Scott Pendlebury. A master of the midfield, a Collingwood champion, and now—officially—the AFL’s Most Respected Midfielder.
