Scott Pendlebury announces AFL future plans, proving age is just a number

Scott Pendlebury to Continue for 19th Season at Collingwood

Collingwood veteran Scott Pendlebury has confirmed that he will extend his football career for at least another year. The 35-year-old midfielder has signed with the Magpies for a 19th season in 2024 and in reach of his 400th AFL game, a coveted milestone that has been reached by only five VFL/AFL players. Pendlebury has played 370 games, which is a club record, and he could potentially join Brent Harvey (432 games), Michael Tuck (426), Shaun Burgoyne (407), Kevin Bartlett (403), and Dustin Fletcher (400) in the exclusive club.

Pendlebury’s Future Plans

“I couldn’t pass up the opportunity to be a part of this club for one more year at least,” Pendlebury said in a statement. He expressed his commitment to assisting the coaching group in developing their squad and to continue improving and succeeding. Being a one-club player is something he is proud of, but his main motivation is to care for his team, assist his coaches, and play the best he can.

Craig McRae’s Contract Extension

In addition to the news of Pendlebury’s extension, Collingwood’s coach Craig McRae has also signed a new contract that will keep him at the club until the end of the 2026 AFL season. “Leading this team and being a part of this great club is something I am incredibly grateful for, and I look forward to continuing on this journey,” McRae said. He also added that he had not seen a group like the current team in his 16 years of coaching.

Stability and Future of Collingwood

According to Collingwood’s football manager Graham Wright, the re-signings of Pendlebury and McRae are a show of confidence and a commitment to the future of the club’s football program. “The commitment from both men today speaks volumes for the future of this football program,” Wright said. The stability that McRae brings as the senior coach for another three terms, and Pendlebury as a key leader of the side, is expected to boost the morale and performance of Collingwood.

Editorial: Age vs. Experience in Sports

Scott Pendlebury’s commitment to play in his 19th season in the AFL at the age of 35 has sparked a debate on age vs. experience in sports. Some argue that Pendlebury’s experience is invaluable to the team, while others believe that younger players should have more opportunities and that older players should retire. However, it is essential to remember that age is just a number. Experience and mental toughness often make the difference between winning and losing. Experience also allows veteran players like Pendlebury to mentor younger players, provide guidance, and boost morale. Therefore, if Pendlebury is willing and able to continue playing, his experience and commitment to his team should not be ignored.

Advice

Finally, we should all learn from Pendlebury’s commitment, work ethics and willingness to help others despite his age. Even when things may not be going according to plan, we must remain resilient and committed to our goals. It is essential to remember that success is achieved through hard work, dedication, and teamwork, regardless of age.