Could “Massive Pies” Double Signing Lead to AFL History?

Collingwood signs Pendlebury and McRae to new contracts, putting 400 games in reach for Pendlebury

Congratulations are in order for Scott Pendlebury and Craig McRae as Collingwood signs them for new contract extensions. The signing of the two illustrious AFL figures is a massive statement of intent by the club and keeps the duo at the club for the foreseeable future.

The Deal

Coach Craig McRae has been rewarded with a two-year contract extension while 19-year veteran Scott Pendlebury has been signed for another year, which will take his spell at the club to 19 years. Pendlebury’s signing towards a 19th AFL season would make him the sixth player in AFL history to play 400 games, which will be a significant milestone for the superstar former captain in the AFL.

Implications of the Deal

The new contracts for Pendlebury and McRae are more than just two individuals signing papers; it is a statement of the Collingwood Magpies’ intent to amplify their aspirations. The club is trying to improve and solidify its position in the AFL premiership by investing in its valuable players and coach.

Pendlebury, the longest-serving captain in Collingwood’s history, is a significant player for the club and has played 370 games for the club. His signing will give a significant morale boost to the whole squad and coaching department, and the Collingwood team will aim to utilize his expertise and wisdom in the coming season.

Coach Craig McRae, who has taken over the team in 2022, has already taken the team to the preliminary finals last year and has a better run during 2023. The team is sitting on top of the ladder with 11 wins already, and McRae’s signing will provide the club with stability in the top job for the coming years.

Philosophical Discussion and Advice

The deal reflects an essential quality in the AFL, one that is often underlooked: loyalty. Scott Pendlebury has spent 18 years at the club, and Craig McRae is entering his second season as coach. Loyalty is inherent to the fabric of the AFL, and clubs often invest in their players, staff, and coaches who have demonstrated such loyalty to the club. This investment is not just limited to the financial aspect, but it is also a moral investment, a sign of trust, respect, and support.

The AFL‘s culture is unique in many ways, but the loyalty shown by clubs to their valuable players and staff is something that sets it apart. It reflects the bonds that have been created between the clubs and their players, coaches and staff, and fans. It is this constant support and encouragement that allow clubs to remain relevant, impacting the community and striving for success while staying true to their values.

Investment in valuable players and staff is an important message to the fans as well. It shows that the clubs are committed to their players and their supporters and are looking at the long-term picture. Clubs need to keep their fans engaged, remain relevant to their interests, and keep the faith of the supporters secured in the club, and this investment provides a sense of stability to the supporters.

As the season progresses, the Collingwood Magpies will look to build on their early success and make a deep run in the finals. The loyal support from Scott Pendlebury and Craig McRae will be valuable assets for the club, and the fans will be looking forward to seeing them in action, making history with each game.