The Collingwood Football Club congratulates Scott Pendlebury, who is set to become the VFL/AFL all-time games record holder when he runs out for his 433rd match on Saturday at the MCG.
Currently equal with Brent Harvey on 432 games, Pendlebury will move to the outright record holder when Collingwood faces Waalitj Marawar (West Coast Eagles) in Round 11.
In 2024, Pendlebury became just the sixth player in VFL/AFL history to reach the 400-game milestone, joining Brent Harvey (432), Michael Tuck (426), Shaun Burgoyne (407), Kevin Bartlett (403 games) and Dustin Fletcher (400).
The 38-year-old already has an illustrious career, with this occasion another record to his name.
No other Magpie has worn the black and white stripes more than Pendlebury and no other Collingwood Captain has led the team out as many times as he has (206 games between 2014 - 2022).
The MCG has been home to 273 of Pendlebury’s matches, 43 more games than Steele Sidebottom who sits second on the all-time V/AFL games list for the iconic venue.
With already a plethora of accolades – two AFL Premierships, six All Australian selections, five E.W. Copeland Trophies and a Norm Smith Medal – Pendlebury has continued to add to his achievements in his 21st season, claiming his fourth ANZAC Medal this year in his 19th Anzac Day match.
Collingwood President Barry Carp congratulated Pendlebury on the outstanding achievement.
"On behalf of the entire Club, I congratulate Scott on this historic achievement," Carp said.
"Records are broken, but some achievements redefine what we thought possible. Scott Pendlebury reaching 433 games is one of those moments.
"As Scott surpasses some of the most revered names in our game's history, he does so with deep respect for those champions who came before him and now, deservedly, takes his place among them.
"This record-breaking week goes deeper than numbers. Scott leaves a blueprint for every young player who walks through the doors of this Club - of what dedication, humility and professionalism look like in practice. That is his greatest legacy.
"Congratulations to Scott, Alex, Jax and Darcy, his parents Bruce and Liza, and the entire Pendlebury family. We look forward to recognising and celebrating with you all on Saturday afternoon in front of our Magpie Army. What an honour and privilege it is for all of us to share this remarkable journey with you."
AFL Chief Executive Officer Andrew Dillon said Scott Pendlebury had produced an astonishing level of performance across his career for Collingwood and has done so with great leadership and professionalism.
“Across two decades at the elite level, Scott Pendlebury has consistently demonstrated why he is regarded as one of the game’s greats,” Dillon said.
“Scott’s composure, decision-making and ability to execute under pressure have been hallmarks of his career, and his influence on matches has been remarkable for such a sustained period of time.
“He has led with humility and professionalism throughout his journey at Collingwood, setting a benchmark for preparation, consistency and leadership for those around him.
“His list of achievements speaks for itself, but equally impressive is the respect he has earned across the football industry through the way he has carried himself both on and off the field.
“Scott has also been an important voice in broader discussions around the game, always approaching those conversations with care, intelligence and a genuine passion for football.
“To reach the highest ever number of AFL/VFL games played is an extraordinary accomplishment that reflects durability, resilience and an enduring commitment to the sport.
“On behalf of the AFL, we congratulate Scott, Alex and their family on a truly outstanding contribution to Australian football.”