Pendlebury has stood down as Collingwood skipper (Photo by Dylan Burns/AFL Photos via Getty Images)Source: FOX SPORTS“To captain an AFL club is one of the greatest honours and it is not something I have ever taken for granted,” Pendlebury said.
“It has been an absolute privilege to lead this side for as long as I have.
“At 34 years of age and in the twilight of my career, I felt that this is the optimal time to hand over the position and support the next captain of our club.
“I have experienced all the great football highs and lows throughout my nine-year tenure as captain and I look forward to seeing the next person take the opportunity and make it their own.
“This year, I have shared in what feels like a new era of Collingwood – with new coaches, staff and a young playing group – and we have all witnessed what we have been able to create. It seems timely that we welcome a new captain for season 2023.”
Collingwood said it’d “soon put in place the process” to appoint its next skipper, with Darcy Moore, Taylor Adams and Jeremy Howe the likely frontrunners.
In addition to being the Magpies’ longest-serving captain, Pendlebury has also played a record 358 games for the club as well as the most matches at the MCG in VFL/AFL history.
He’s coming off another strong season, finishing third in Collingwood’s best and fairest – marking 14 of his 17 seasons he’s finished in the top three for the award.
The 34-year old, who comes out of contract at the end of next season, was also named the AFLPA’s best captain in 2020 and 2022.
“That is a pretty significant announcement in terms of what you’ve offered this footy club for so long,” Magpies coach Craig McRae said.
“As I said when I took over, it was always going to be your decision to lead this footy club. You’ve done it so magnificently, particularly last year, one of your best years you’ve ever had.
“Thanks for everything you’ve done in my short time, and I’m sure this footy club is going to be better for all the things you’ve done for us.”
