Collingwood premiership captain Nick Maxwell will lead the Magpies for a fifth consecutive season, supported by a streamlined leadership team of three that includes vice-captain Scott Pendlebury and deputy vice captains Luke Ball and Dayne Beams.

Maxwell’s influence on and off the field was recognized clearly by his peers, who shared in deciding the composition of the 2013 leadership group.

“I’m extremely proud to be leading Collingwood again,” Maxwell said.

“Although leadership at Collingwood is a responsibility we all share, leading the team remains a great honour, particularly at a time when there is a lot to prove and so much to achieve.”

Two of Maxwell’s lieutenants, Pendlebury and Ball, were by his side last season but Beams, the 2012 Copeland Trophy winner, has been formally recognized by his team-mates and coaches for the first time.

The 22 year-old was introduced to the workings of the leadership group mid-season last year, as his form and influence built, but he now has an official role.

“ ‘Beamsy’ has made tremendous strides in the last 18 months, setting an example that is particularly powerful to our younger players,” Maxwell said.


“He is proof to us all that hard work and dedication can make a profound difference.”
Senior coach Nathan Buckley said that all four members of the leadership group were chosen for the one reason; their ability to influence the change room as much as any contest.

“All of them were identified as positive role models, people who can bring others with them by leading on and off the field,” Buckley said.

“And as much as anything that means developing the concept of what leadership should be at Collingwood.”

CAREER DETAILS
Nick Maxwell: DOB 3-6-83. Career – 179 matches, Collingwood captain 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, All-Australian 2009.
Scott Pendlebury: DOB 7-1-88. Career – 148 matches, 95 goals, Copeland Trophy winner 2011, All-Australian 2010, 2011, 2012, Norm Smith medallist 2010 (replay).
Luke Ball: DOB 25-5-84. Career – 193 matches (51 Collingwood), 83 goals, All-Australian 2005, St Kilda captain 2006 and 2007 and St Kilda best and fairest winner 2005.
Dayne Beams: DOB 12-2-90. 83 matches, 89 goals, Copeland Trophy winner 2012, All-Australian 2012.