As the 2025 AFL season progresses, one name continues to echo throughout the halls of the Collingwood Football Club – Scott Pendlebury. The Magpies’ revered veteran and five-time Copeland Trophy winner is once again staking a strong claim for the club’s most prestigious individual honour. His consistent brilliance, leadership, and unwavering commitment to the black and white guernsey have seen him emerge as a standout performer in what has already been an electrifying season.
Pendlebury’s journey is nothing short of legendary. With over two decades in the game, he has carved out a career that will be remembered for generations. The former Collingwood captain and Brownlow Medal contender is not only a statistical powerhouse, but also a tactical genius on the field. His ability to read the play, dictate tempo, and bring teammates into the game remains unmatched, even as he edges into the twilight of his career.
In 2025, Pendlebury continues to defy age and expectation. While many assumed the 36-year-old would take a backseat in a youthful Magpies lineup, he has done the opposite – thriving as a key contributor and leading by example. His performances have been marked by composure under pressure, surgical precision with his disposals, and an uncanny ability to turn the tide of a match.
What makes Pendlebury’s current form all the more remarkable is the strength of the competition around him. Collingwood boasts a roster brimming with emerging stars and seasoned campaigners. Yet, amidst this depth of talent, it’s Pendlebury’s name that repeatedly surfaces in post-game analyses and votes. Whether it’s a crucial intercept, a string of clever handpasses through traffic, or a goal-saving tackle, his influence is undeniable.
The Copeland Trophy, awarded annually to Collingwood’s best and fairest player, has long been a symbol of excellence at the club. Pendlebury’s five previous wins – in 2011, 2013, 2014, 2015, and 2016 – already place him among the most decorated players in Magpies history. Should he claim the award again in 2025, it would mark his sixth Copeland Trophy – a feat that would further cement his legacy as one of the greatest to ever don the black and white.
Beyond the statistics and accolades, what truly sets Pendlebury apart is his leadership. His calm demeanor, relentless work ethic, and team-first mentality make him a beacon for the next generation of Magpies. Young players like Nick Daicos and Josh Carmichael have openly spoken about the impact Pendlebury has had on their development, both on and off the field.
With several rounds still to play, the race for the 2025 Copeland Trophy is far from over. However, if current form is anything to go by, Scott Pendlebury is not just participating in the race – he’s leading it. Barring injury or a dramatic shift in momentum, he remains the front-runner for yet another crowning moment in his storied career.
For Magpie fans, watching Pendlebury in action this season is a reminder of the greatness they’ve witnessed for nearly 20 years. And if the veteran midfielder does go on to secure his sixth Copeland Trophy, it will be a fitting tribute to a player who has given everything – and more – to the Collingwood Football Club.