Collingwood games record holder Scott Pendlebury has addressed his decision to end his time in the black and white.
Following the bombshell announcement that he would accept a two-year playing deal followed by two years as an assistant coach at Gold Coast, a statement was released via Collingwood's website.
“For the past 21 years, it's been an incredible privilege to be a Collingwood footballer. From walking in the doors as a 17-year-old, to seeing the way everyone at the club has welcomed and embraced my family over all these years is something that is truly special,” Pendlebury said.
“I've spent the majority of my life here and so many of my best memories have come through being part of Collingwood. The friendships, the challenges, the successes and even the tough times have all shaped who I am.
“The privilege of pulling on the Collingwood jumper has never been lost on me. I understand what this Club means to so many people and I've always tried to represent it in a way that makes our Magpie Army proud.
“This decision has not come lightly but I know this is the best thing for me and my family as I transition into the next phase of my football journey.
“And while my next chapter won't be in the black and white, it's hard to put into words what the Collingwood Football Club means to me. To all my coaches, the staff and my teammates, thank you for everything. Collingwood has been such a significant part of my life and I'll always be grateful for the opportunity to represent this great football club."
There is a belief that Pendlebury will return to Collingwood in a coaching capacity in the future, but is keen to broaden his knowledge by experiencing a different environment.
Former Pies coach Nathan Buckley was critiqued for going straight from playing to coaching at the Magpies without experiencing another club, a common school of thought being that going elsewhere could have broadened his knowledge.
Pendlebury spent Friday night in the coach's box during Collingwood's Wildcard Round loss and has been a coaching figure throughout the year when he has not been playing.
He has also mentored the next generation of talent at Haileybury College in recent years alongside former Essendon great Matthew Lloyd.
Collingwood coach Craig McRae acknowledged Pendlebury's impact at the club.
“Scott has dedicated so much of himself to this Club over such a long period of time and we're all incredibly grateful for the impact he's had. He turns up every day with real humility, a willingness to learn and a genuine care for the people around him,” McRae said.
“We talk a lot about legacy in footy, but Scott's legacy isn't just the games or the records. It's the impact he's had on people.
“At the Collingwood, we live in a state of growth mindset with no ceilings and he has led this from the front. He has been an incredible role model for his teammates and the wider club.
“We are all grateful for being a part of Scott's football journey and the shared experiences and memories we've had together.
“To Scott, Alex, Bruce, Liza, Jax and Darcy, they will always be apart of our Collingwood family.”
