The Collingwood Football Club advises there is set to be a rare moment this AFL season where two significant occasions will coincide, with the Club committed to celebrating Sir Doug Nicholls Round and Scott Pendlebury’s historic milestone side by side.
Sir Doug Nicholls Round will be celebrated across Rounds 10 and 11, with Collingwood to face the Sydney Swans away in Round 10 before hosting the West Coast Eagles (Waalitj Marawar) in Round 11, where Pendlebury is expected to become the VFL/AFL’s all-time games record holder.
Collingwood CEO Craig Kelly said:
“Sir Doug Nicholls Round is a significant celebration in the AFL calendar where we recognise and honour the contributions of First Nations people to Australian football,” Kelly said.
“At Collingwood, we are excited to celebrate Sir Doug Nicholls Round across the next fortnight through our internal and external storytelling, match-day initiatives, ticketing access, education and community and corporate partnerships.
“We look forward to wearing our Indigenous guernsey in our AFL and VFL matches against Sydney in week one of Sir Doug Nicholls Round as part of the Marn Grook game at the SCG.
“Currently, Scott’s milestone game is set to take place in week two and – while Collingwood’s Sir Doug Nicholls Round match-day elements and initiatives will remain in place – the AFL team will wear a commemorative SP433 guernsey for the game.
“We want to assure all Members and supporters we will celebrate Sir Doug Nicholls Round and Scott Pendlebury’s historic milestone with the prominence and respect each deserves, Side by Side.
“The Club’s plans over the coming weeks have reflected a one-club approach, with First Nations leaders, Club staff, the Pendlebury family and all other parties working closely together. It is a great opportunity for the Magpie Army to come together at the MCG with their families and friends and enjoy what is set to be a special showcase and celebration of our great game.”
As the Club aims to do each year, Collingwood plans to wear its Indigenous guernsey in AFL and VFL matches during NAIDOC Week (Round 18) and potentially at other matches throughout the season. NAIDOC Week this year celebrates “50 Years of Deadly”, recognising the strength, culture and achievements of First Nations people.
