Magpie 2014 Ratings

SUPERFOOTY

Collingwood players are listed in five categories in assessing their 2014 ratings:

• Guns (in the elite of the competition)
• Stars (very good players who aren’t quite superstars)
• Foot soldiers (regulars who get the job done each week)
• Crossroads (fringe players who are playing for their career or are yet to cement a spot in the side)
• Who knows (too early to make a call)

We’ve added our expert assessment to highlight the players heading up the rankings with a bullet and those who might be on the slide.
The Magpies are no certainties to play finals in 2014, but their future looks very promising. They’ve secured five first-round draft picks in the past two years as well as prized selection Taylor Adams as Nathan Buckley takes full control of his team.
But is the cattle they’ve assembled really that good? Here is our assessment. 

GUNS
Scott Pendlebury
Age: 26. Games: 171. Position: Midfielder
It might have only been NAB Challenge, but from the moment Scott Pendlebury shed the green vest last week the Magpies seemed to walk taller. And kick a lot more goals. They went from four goals down to three goals up, largely due to this bloke’s class. Based on SuperCoach points, he’s the most consistent AFL superstar since 2011 and his coolness in traffic remains unchallenged. Last year 93 per cent of Pendles’ clearances were effective. Crazy good.
SUPERCOACH SPECIAL: He’s expensive, priced at $683,100, but expensive for a reason. Some experts believe Pendlebury will do the unthinkable and overtake Ablett as the No. 1 scorer this year.
Dane Swan
Age: 30. Games: 219. Position: Midfielder
Swanny simply refuses to show signs of slowing down. The greatest accumulator of disposals per minute in the AFL, Champion Data also ranks him the No. 1 midfielder in one-on-one contests. And when Swan fires, so do the Pies with the Brownlow Medallist raking in an extra 31 SuperCoach points in wins last season. He just inked a new deal to remain a Pie until the end of 2016 and still remains a huge threat for another Brownlow, finishing just two votes behind winner Gary Ablett last year.
Dayne Beams
Age: 24. Games: 91. Position: Midfielder
Entering his sixth season, Beams is now a legitimate gun of the competition. The quad injury he sustained at the final kick of the final training session before Round 1 last year kept him sidelined until Round 16, but he wasted no time reminding the footy world just how damaging he is. Beams led the Pies in clearances from his eight games and averaged 28 disposals, while his record in big matches is outstanding. He showed in the NAB Challenge opener he’s back to his best and ready for a monster 2014.
SUPERCOACH SPECIAL: Priced under $500,000 on the back of his injury-wrecked 2013, Beams should be one of your first-picked players. Cracked the ton in the NAB Challenge match to put an exclamation mark after his name.
Travis Cloke
Age: 27. Games: 196. Position: Full-forward
Cloke’s 2012 might have been dominated by his ridiculous drawn-out and public contract negotiations, but the brutal spearhead showed why he won a five-year deal last season. The full-forward finished fourth in the Copeland Trophy and was named All-Australian after booting 68 goals to finish two off the Coleman Medal. Cloke also clunked 58 contested grabs, the most in the AFL, and amassed a massive 136 shots at goal. If he can sweeten his accuracy the 108kg hulk could become the hardest forward to contain.
Ben Reid
Age: 24. Games: 95. Position: Key defender/forward
If Nathan Buckley had one wish it could well be for a second Ben Reid. The 195cm star showed in the second half of last year he’s just as capable booting goals as he is defending them. The swingman kicked bags of four and five in the final home and away games, while his long reach makes him a stingy defender. With Jesse White on-board the need for Reid up forward will diminish, but his ability to swing between the arcs adds another dimension to the Pies’ game plan.

STARS
Steele Sidebottom
Age: 23. Games: 108. Position: Midfielder
Sidebottom is one of the Pies’ most consistent and durable offensive midfielders. A big-game specialist — dating back to his 10-goal TAC Cup Grand Final effort — he was a rare contributor in last year’s shock elimination final loss. The 180cm star finished third in the Copeland Trophy and has played 108 of a possible 118 games since his debut. Sidebottom is able to excel on the back of the Magpie midfield brilliance, repeatedly working to space and delivering the footy under less pressure.
Nathan Brown
Age: 25. Games: 90. Position: Key defender
The Pies’ lockdown defender is rarely beaten and became one of the league’s finest spoilers in 2013. Brown had more than two goals kicked on him by his direct opponent just twice last year, despite holding the defensive fort with Lachie Keeffe last year as Ben Reid was swung forward.

FOOT SOLDIERS
Luke Ball
Age: 29. Games: 206. Position: Midfielder
Luke Ball’s scintillating finish to 2013 — a year he began still plagued by that knee reconstruction and hamstring issues — showed he’s far from a spent force. The ex-Saint posted a career-best disposal average, despite averaging the fewest minutes on the ground at one time of any midfielder in the competition. An outstanding character, he will also have a huge role to play in teaching the prized young midfielders at the Pies such as Taylor Adams and Nathan Freeman.
Heritier Lumumba
Age: 27. Games: 178. Position: Running defender
A new name, a new hairdo and renewed energy from Harr… er, Heritier this year. Those at the Magpies say Lumumba is happy and in peak condition entering 2014. And with Heath Shaw gone, expect Lumumba to add enough more flair and dash to his game — and that could translate to success. Last year Lumumba collected 20 disposals in 11 matches for 10 wins.
Nick Maxwell
Age: 30. Games: 198. Position: Defender
The former skipper will remain a leader despite handing over the big C to Pendles and while he’s polarised many in the footy community, there is little doubting his standing within the Westpac Centre. An intercept king, Maxwell enjoyed more midfield time in 2013 and remains an integral cog in the back six.



Brodie Grundy
Age: 19. Games: 7. Position: Ruckman
We all know the story. Touted all year as a top-three draft pick. Overlooked by GWS five times. Fell to the Pies at No. 18 in the steal of the 2012 draft. And from his Round 18 debut Grundy wasted no time letting the footy world know he would have little problem adapting to the highest level. With Darren Jolly gone the physical ruckman is suddenly the main man at the Pies, but looks capable. Wearing Alan Didak’s No. 4 guernsey, Grundy impressed in the NAB Challenge opener with the Pies’ onball division looking sharper with him in the centre. Opponents might try and expose his tank but Grundy is a Pie on the rise.
SUPERCOACH SPECIAL: A No. 1 ruckman priced at $363,000? That looks pretty special. Scored 63 from limited game time last week and should rise at least $100k — and fast.
Taylor Adams
Age: 20. Games: 31. Position: Midfielder
When GWS took Adams at No. 13 in the 2011 draft with the 10th of their 11 top-14 picks, several clubs were left disappointed, but not surprised. The Geelong Falcons hardnut was rated as a future AFL leader and had his name called before Richmond young gun Brandon Ellis. In his 31 games at the Giants he showed in glimpses why he was so highly regarded, and ranked the second-best clearance player behind Callan Ward last year. If Adams develops as expected it shouldn’t be long until he elevates himself into the next category, particularly learning from the likes of Pendles, Swan and Beams.
Jesse White
Age: 26. Games: 71. Position: Key forward
Pick 44 for Jesse White? It seemed like a reasonable trade at the time, but if White’s five-goal debut in the NAB Challenge foreshadows his black and white career the Magpies will emerge huge winners. A perennial teaser, White kept showing glimpses of his freakish ability as a mobile forward at the Swans before being squeezed out a year after almost joining Adelaide. Will replace the Q-Stick and could provide the perfect foil for Travis Cloke.
Clinton Young
Age: 28. Games: 118. Position: Midfielder
You can disregard the premiership Hawk’s maiden season at the Pies with the line-breaker repeatedly breaking down with soft-tissue injuries. Young managed just two games therefore should effectively be a recruit in 2014 and if he can resurrect his powerful running and kicking game it’ll be a sweetener for Bucks. Champion Data stats showed Young averaged a gain of 39m per kick last year, the clear No. 1 at the Pies.
Sam Dwyer
Age: 27. Games: 21. Position: Half-forward
A shrewd rookie selection, Dwyer got his chance at 26 and immediately added a coat of gloss to Collingwood’s half-forward line. His ball use was the catalyst for countless scoring opportunities, and Dwyer cemented his place in the Magpies side in just his second game when he torched Carlton with a goal from 23 possessions. If Dwyer can kick on in 2014 the likable ex-Port Melbourne star still has time to forge out an impressive AFL career.
Jamie Elliott
Age: 21. Games: 35. Position: Small forward
Elliott needs to crunch the gap between his best and worst, but he showed in 2013 he’s capable of becoming a star. The energetic livewire booted five goals in the Round 2 blockbuster against Carlton and showed he’s got more strings than just crumbing, taking the second-most marks inside 50 at the Pies behind Cloke. A burst player who is hard to contain when red-hot, he also took mark of the year and finished the year with a solid 30 goals from 20 matches.
Alex Fasolo
Age: 21. Games: 40. Position: Small forward
Fasolo shot to prominence in his first two seasons, booting 44 goals from his first 37 games, before suffering a nasty navicular injury to his right foot last year. The 181cm forward faces a tricky task returning to full flight this season but his talent is unquestionable. He should provide another dynamic to the forward half in 2014.
Jarryd Blair
Age: 23. Games: 81. Position: Small forward
The 174cm warrior is in the Pies’ side for one crucial reason — his defensive pressure. And that was evident last year as Nathan Buckley cut down Blair’s midfield time as the likes of Josh Thomas stepped up and Brent Macaffer and Luke Ball returned. But Blair remained an automatic selection, notching the third-most pressure acts in the AFL. His average of 5.7 tackles led the Magpies, while he is expected to remain as a small forward this year.
Lachie Keeffe
Age: 23. Games: 22. Position: Key defender
Keeffe might not have rejoined the Magpies’ AFL side until Round 17 after overcoming a knee reconstruction, but he quickly showed how valuable he is. The key defender had just 11 goals kicked on him in eight matches, a remarkable achievement given he manned up on Buddy, Jeremy Cameron and Kurt Tippett at times. His defensive numbers mirrored Harry Taylor, while his return freed up Ben Reid to swing forward late in the season. After a full pre-season the reliable backman is set for a big 2014.
Brent Macaffer
Age: 26. Games: 52. Position: Midfielder
If there was one thing the Magpies lacked in the late years of Mick Malthouse’s rein, it was a tagger. Enter Macaffer. The former rookie was reborn last year, shutting down players in the ilk of Nick Dal Santo, Joel Selwood, Sam Mitchell and Josh Kennedy — limiting all to less than 20 possessions. The challenge for him is to add an offensive streak to his game in 2014, but credit to Macaffer — and coach Nathan Buckley — to reignite himself after a knee reconstruction.
Paul Seedsman
Age: 22. Games: 28. Position: Defender
The running defender was the Pies’ most improved player last year and stepped up into the role most thought Clinton Young would play until the ex-Hawk broke down with injury. A value pick nabbed at No. 76 in the draft who should be a regular when he returns from hip surgery.
Josh Thomas
Age: 22: Games: 19. Position: Midfielder
The Magpies just keep sticking by the No. 75 pick from 2009 and we finally saw why last season, when Thomas finally shook his injury curse and broke through for 19 games. Expect Thomas to ramp up his midfield responsibilities this season. He averaged the fifth-most disposals of any debutant and showed his potential with 35 sharp touches, a goal and three Brownlow votes against the Eagles in Round 22.
Alan Toovey
Age: 26. Games: 114. Position: Defender
The defender is just about ready to roll after rupturing his ACL last Anzac Day. And what a plus that will be, given how highly Toovey is respected by the playing group. His absence left a hole last season with his opening month impressive. Will take time this year to return to his very best.

Marley Williams
Age: 20. Games: 22. Position: Defender
If medals were given out in pre-season, Marley Williams would have both hands in the air for one. He has sizzled this summer with his blistering pace and creativity a standout as he practices streaming out of defence. With Heath Shaw gone, expect the bargain rookie pick to go to a new level in 2014 after playing the final 16 games last season, winning a Rising Star nomination on the way.
Ben Sinclair
Age: 22. Games: 39. Position: Defender
Sinclair’s 2012 was a roller-coaster. He struggled early and found himself dropped before replacing Alan Toovey in the back pocket and flourishing, but had his season ended in Round 21 with a blow to his shoulder. In his defensive role he was able to contain the likes of Luke Dahlhaus and Jeff Garlett. Still needs to sharpen his kicking but it will be interesting to see where Bucks places him in 2014.

CROSSROADS
Tyson Goldsack
Age: 26. Games: 104 games. Position: Defender
Goldsack is probably stiff to be here but after injuries kept him to 13 games last year it shapes as an important season for the swingman. The premiership player reinvented himself as a crafty forward in 2012, before returning to his defensive post last season. He became a favourite of the coaching staff with his impeccable one-on-one record and knack for affecting intercepts. If he can return to his best this year he could quickly return to the best 18.
Jarrod Witts
Age: 21. Games: 7. Position: Ruckman
Mick Malthouse was a massive Witts fan, adamant he would have played senior footy in 2012 if he was still coach. It took the 208cm man-mountain until Round 7 last year to debut, and while he remains a work in progress, the Magpie faithful will be hoping he starts to cash in on his potential to develop a dominant ruck partnership with Grundy.
Patrick Karnezis
Age: 21. Games: 21. Position: Forward
A perennial teaser at the Lions, Karnezis should get opportunities at the Pies as a third marking forward. He was the buzz player 12 months ago, impressing in Brisbane’s NAB Cup triumph but fizzled quickly as midfield opportunities dried up. The former Oakleigh Charger dominated the weaker NEAFL and at 21 and entering his fourth year in the system he needs to start stringing games together.
Tony Armstrong
Age: 24. Games: 29. Position: Defender
Armstrong joined the Pies as a delisted free agent in a boom move for his career. A run-and-carry specialist, he was always unlikely to get much of a go at the Swans behind the likes of Lewis Jetta and Gary Rohan. The Pies have lost Heath Shaw and Ben Johnson, so Armstrong will get chances if he’s good enough. He looked good in the Pies’ first intra-club but after 29 games in six years (14 with Adelaide, 15 with Sydney) the time to show he can be a regular at the top level is now.
Marty Clarke
Age: 26. Games: 72. Position: Defender
The Irishman vanished quickly from Collingwood’s side last year with a corked thigh, ankle injury and dip in form shutting down his season. Clarke’s return of nine games was the lowest of his AFL career, while he struggled with the physicality with his tackling efficiency letting him down. In his third year back in Australia, the 26-year-old needs a big 2014.
Quinten Lynch
Age: 31. Games: 227. Position: Key forward
With Jesse White’s arrival, the Q-Stick is set to become the go-to man in the Pies’ VFL side this year. Lynch looked one of the recruits of the year last season when he racked up 24 touches against Carlton in Round 2, but after that he faded quickly as his body started to break down. He could pinch-hit in the ruck, but at 31 Lynch looks to have just a handful of AFL games left in him.
Ben Hudson (rookie)
Age: 35. Games: 168. Position: Ruckman
At 35 the John Farnham of the AFL is on the rookie list purely for insurance. He’s at the Pies for his ruck coaching ability and to help the VFL division but did manage seven AFL appearances last year. Look for him should Witts or Grundy go down but surely after a career spanning four clubs this is his final year on an AFL list.
Caolan Mooney (rookie)
Age: 21. Games: 6. Position: Forward
The speedy Irishman was a big improver in the VFL last year and even cracked two senior games. If that graph continues this year he could be one the Pies bring onto the primary list.
Peter Yagmoor (rookie)
Age: 20. Games: 2. Position: Defender
Yagmoor was in the side when Buckley started as Magpies coach but failed to play a match last season. The defender with a nice left foot can run himself into trouble and will be hoping to add to his games tally in 2014 in order to stay in the system.

WHO KNOWS?
Nathan Freeman
Age: 18. Games: 0. Position: Midfielder
The Pies have a speed demon in Nathan Freeman. The Luke Shuey-clone who also has a touch of Patrick Dangerfield sprinkled through him became a Magpie with their prized No. 10 pick last year and while he suffered a hamstring setback against the Cats, there’s little reason why he can’t make an impact this year. A gregarious and fun teenager with a streak of leadership, the damaging midfielder will catch the eye quickly with his burst acceleration almost impossible to stop, particularly out of packs. Expect him to shoot up to star status one day.
Matthew Scharenberg
Age: 18. Games: 0. Position: Defender
Champion Data ranked this intercept king the clear third-best player in last year’s draft, but he fell to the Pies at No. 6, who were unfazed about serious feet injuries he was carrying. They hoped rest would allow him to run again (he hasn’t played at any level since August 3), but it didn’t help and Scharenberg had both his feet operated on this month. The dual All-Australian is now facing several months on the sidelines, but if he returns to full fitness the Pies will have a ready-made replacement for Heath Shaw. Mark Williams rated him as the best schoolboy talent since Wayne Carey.
Ben Kennedy
Age: 20. Games: 12. Position: Forward
Another of Collingwood’s coveted first-round picks, Kennedy is a goalkicker with pinpoint skills who oozes class. Capable of roaming through the midfield, he won 12 games last year and performed well, mostly starting as the substitute. He’s one the Pies rate extremely high and should rise to a new level this year given he showed in 2013 he was already a cut above state-league standard.
Tim Broomhead
Age: 19. Games: 0. Position: Forward
One of five first-round picks to join the Pies in the past two drafts, Broomhead suffered a setback when he broke his hand in the NAB Challenge opener. Glandular fever wrecked his debut season, so the South Australian will be desperate for a change in luck. A creative half-forward with polish, Broomhead should get chances this year on the back of his blistering second half to 2013 in the VFL.
Jackson Ramsay
Age: 19. Games: 0. Position: Defender
The first half of the West Australian’s season was ruined by a wrist injury, but the No. 38 draft pick returned to average 16 disposals in 10 VFL outings. Needs to ramp up his contested ball numbers but one the Pies can work.
Jon Marsh
Age: 18. Games: 0. Position: Key forward
Don’t expect to see the X-Factor forward anytime soon, but that’s not to say the Pies don’t have a player in Jon Marsh. He’s powerful and explosive but a tad erratic. Marsh blitzed the sprints test at last year’s draft camp to underline his electrifying speed and while he’s extremely raw, his marking on the lead is impressive. The Magpies didn’t even expect to use pick 77 last year, but couldn’t resist when this West Australian’s name was yet to be called.
Tom Langdon
Age: 19. Games: 0. Position: Defender/midfielder
Langon is a teenager the Pies rate highly. After missing out in the 2012 draft, he returned to play TAC Cup as a 19-year-old last year and averaged 28 disposals, five tackles and five clearances for Sandringham Dragons, while he also showed he could cut it against men in his six VFL appearances. Langdon is strong overhead and could be fast-tracked for AFL games this year.
Adam Oxley
Age: 21. Games: 2. Position: Midfielder
Oxley was elevated off the rookie list after a sensational state-league season. He averaged just 14 disposals in the weaker NEAFL in 2012 before lifting that to 21 in the VFL and winning an AFL debut in Round 11. Watch for his ability to read the play from half back and use the ball neatly.
Jack Frost (rookie)
Age: 22. Games: 2. Position: Key defender
This kid is another injury-cursed Magpie with huge upside. Plucked from under the nose of the Western Bulldogs (from their then-VFL affiliate Williamstown), Frost is a stingy defender who established himself limiting the premier state-league spearheads. He battled hip injuries before the Pies took the punt in the rookie draft and debuted in Round 1 last year, but a PCL injury hampered his 2013.
Kyle Martin (rookie)
Age: 23. Games: 4. Position: Midfield
Martin simply bashed and crashed the door down to his AFL debut last year on the back of, his ridiculous VFL numbers. He averaged 25 disposals, eight clearances and seven tackles in the state league on top of booting 35 goals to underline his credentials as an all-round midfield talent who can hit the scoreboard with bags of goals. The challenge this year is replicating that stellar state-league form at the top flight.
Corey Gault (rookie)
Age: 21. Games: 0. Position: Key defender
Gault looks a fair way off AFL level but has 27 VFL games to his name at the Magpies as a key defender.

Weston Creek Bowlo Kicks Supergoal

The Weston Creek Labor Club has kicked the first supergoal of the Fox Footy AFL viewing season in Canberra by showing games live on a crystal clear big screen.
Known locally as the Bowlo (it has three lawn bowls greens), the Club was a popular venue for the first game of the 2014 NAB Challenge between Collingwood and Geelong.
The Cats won the game, but Pies' supporters at the Bowlo won the banter.
First prize went to the wit who noted the vertical stripes of Collingwood and the horizontal colours of Geelong.
"Collingwood at least has the good sense to lay lengthways on the road when having a kip, thereby limiting themselves as targets for traffic," he said.
The Bugle recommends the Weston Creek Labor Club for AFL fans wishing to watch games on Fox Footy, and notes the Stirling Aussie Rules Oval is 100 metres away.
The Club is spacious and comfortable, with excellent bar and food service, and has a well-deserved reputation for its 'community feel'. 

Match and TV Guide
The 2014 NAB Challenge will see 18 matches played consecutively in 18 days, with every club to play two matches in preparation for the season ahead:
http://www.afl.com.au/fixture/nab-challenge
2014 NAB Challenge Fox Footy Broadcast Guide:
http://www.afl.com.au/tv-radio/nab-challenge-broadcast-guide
Collingwood's next NAB Challenge game is against Richmond at Wangaratta, 4:40PM, Saturday, February 22.

Club Details
The Weston Creek Labor Club
Teesdale Close
Stirling ACT 2611
http://www.laborclub.com.au/weston-creek-labor-club/

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2014 NAB Challenge Round 1: Geelong 104 Collingwood 102

THE FACTS

COLLINGWOOD   0.3.5.23    0.5.6.36    1.8.10.67    1.13.15.102
GEELONG             0.5.3.33    0.8.6.54    0.11.7.73    0.16.8.104
Note: Collingwood (Beams) scored one supergoal worth nine points in Q3

SCORERS - Collingwood: Beams (1.0.1), White (0.5.0), Kennedy (0.2.1), Sidebottom (0.1.3), Lynch (0.1.2), Cloke (0.1.1), Adams (0.1.0), Lumumba (0.1.0), Pendlebury (0.1.0), Elliott (0.0.2), Broomhead (0.0.1), Clarke (0.0.1), Grundy (0.0.1)

BEST - Collingwood: Beams, White, Macaffer, Adams, Kennedy, Sidebottom

INJURIES - Collingwood: Broomhead (hand), Freeman (right hamstring), Young (face), Grundy (head)

SUBSTITUTES - Collingwood: Jarryd Blair replaced Nathan Brown (knee) in the second quarter

REPORTS: Nil

OFFICIAL CROWD: 12,140 at Kardinia

THE MEDIA

COLLINGWOOD NEWS Collingwood youngsters Tim Broomhead and Nathan Freeman will spend up to a month on the sidelines after suffering injuries in the Magpies' two-point NAB Challenge loss to Geelong on Wednesday night. Broomhead broke a bone in his hand, while Freeman – the club's first-round draft pick from 2013 – injured his hamstring. "We'll see how they go, but they'll be missing three to four (weeks) each, probably," Magpies coach Nathan Buckley said after the game. Broomhead had a wretched run in his debut season in 2013, battling glandular fever and the youngster was one of the standouts on the training track for the Pies during the pre-season. Freeman had also impressed the Magpies coaching staff with his speed and dedication to his training, with the injury a blow to the club's midfield depth. Pies wingman Clinton Young also copped a knock to the face and was bleeding profusely, but Buckley allayed fears about any serious injury. "He got a smack in the mouth. Obviously not as bad as the Geelong boy (George Burbury). I think he had a lacerated (area) inside his cheek, but he should be right." Brodie Grundy also spent some time on the interchange bench in the first quarter, after leaving the ground dazed by a significant head knock. However the Pies' No.1 ruckman returned to the game later on and Buckley said he was fine. New Recruits While pleased with his defensive structures, Collingwood coach Nathan Buckley had special praise for new recruit Jesse White, who booted five goals in his debut for the club. "I thought he played his role really well. Clearly, five goals is a good return. His running patterns were strong and some of his contests to halve some aerial balls, when he was outnumbered to create opportunities for ground-level players, was excellent," he said. Fellow recruit Taylor Adams was also prolific through the midfield, gathering 31 possessions in an impressive first-up display. "He's (Adams) always in the contest. Tonight ended up being one of those games where if you can get extra numbers to the contest, you had the upper hand," Buckley said. "Taylor worked his way through the game as a consistent presence for us. He would have liked to have finished a couple of his chances, but the energy he gave was consistent." Points of Interest Dayne Beams celebrated his 24th birthday with 35 disposals and four tackles. He also kicked the third super goal of his career, drawing him level with Alan Didak and Nathan Buckley and behind only Ryan Lonie (five) on the club's all-time leaderboard. Former Greater Western Sydney onballer Taylor Adams gathered 31 disposals, which is more than he won in any of his 31 games for the Giants between 2012 and 2013. The tackle machines were out in force. Luke Ball had nine tackles to half time while Scott Pendlebury laid six in his first quarter on the ground. Jesse White made a sensational start to his new life as a Magpie with five goals, more than he had kicked in any of his 71 games for the Swans between 2008 and 2013. How often has a captain begun a match as a substitute? That was the lot of new skipper Pendlebury during his first night on the job. Small forward Jamie Elliott pressed his claims for more time in the midfield with 17 disposals, three clearances and nine tackles. He has used the ball on 17 or more occasions only seven times since debuting in round nine, 2012.

REAL FOOTY Football in February invariably coughs up the uncommon or hitherto unseen. In the first quarter on Wednesday night, Corey Enright fumbled, Steve Johnson shanked a lookaway across-the-body trick shot straight along the ground, and Heritier Lumumba kicked a goal for Collingwood. At least there's a good chance the latter will be repeated when the serious business begins, especially if the Magpie who made his name as Harry O'Brien the half-back continues to be stationed further up the ground. The other oddities in the first game of 2014 are for rusty players and keen coaches to rectify. Geelong won the night by two points, for what it's worth in a competition that has finally owned up to practice-match status. Conveniently, the contest was at its best at the death, the Cats kicking four in a row to regain the lead of a game that seemed lost, Jesse White putting the Magpies back in front with his fifth goal, before Jordan Schroder screwed home his second with a minute on the clock. The roar from the locals as the siren sounded with the ball sailing into Collingwood's forward line once more betrayed that no matter the time of year or label on the occasion, a win is a win. Trend-spotters seeking something meaningful might have identified new director of umpiring Wayne Campbell as an early eye-catcher, with only 27 free kicks paid for the game. A more forgiving approach to contact in marking contests was evident, not least in White's last goal after marking behind a sprawling Harry Taylor. High on a club's pre-season game wishlist is escaping injury-free, and both were denied. For the Pies, pacy draftee Nathan Freeman pinged a hamstring and Tim Broomhead hurt a hand, which kept the extended bench of six and two subs busy. But it was George Burbury's sickening injury that served as a reminder that football is a fierce contact sport. Having impressed up forward, Burbury copped a knee to the face as he slid into a marking contest and left the ground in an ambulance with a suspected broken jaw. Several officials spent the half-time break searching the turf at full-forward for his teeth, but Cats coach Chris Scott said after the game they were all still in Burbury's mouth. Scott confirmed the youngster will have surgery but that the injury was not as bad as first feared. Another Geelong youngster, Jesse Stringer, only lasted a few minutes before being subbed out. The Cats were more composed early, Burbury opening the scoring and Johnson, Travis Varcoe, James Kelly and Mitch Duncan all taking advantage of an opponent that seemed uncertain in defence. Brodie Grundy's 20-minute absence after a heavy knock was noteworthy, as Dawson Simpson dined out on Quinten Lynch and White in the ruck. The Magpies fielded a team more in keeping with the calendar, with former Swans White and Tony Armstrong and ex-Giant Taylor Adams joined by draftees Tom Langdon, Jonathon Marsh and Freeman. Jackson Ramsay and Broomhead fleshed out a group yet to appear in black and white stripes in a meaningful game. White kicked five goals, although it was hard to draw a line on his potential worth as a foil to Travis Cloke as he took only one mark and Cloke rarely got near the ball. Ramsay showed some nice run, but Adams was the standout, the former Geelong Falcon relishing a return to an old stomping ground with a 31-possession game noteworthy for his work in the clinches. Returning from long-term injuries, Clinton Young and Lachie Keeffe would have been happy just to get through.                             "His (Jesse White) running patterns were strong and some of his contests to halve some aerial balls, when he was outnumbered to create opportunities for ground-level players, was excellent." NATHAN BUCKLEY

2014 NAB Challenge Round 1 Preview: Collingwood v Geelong

Collingwood News

Collingwood v Geelong Wednesday Feb 12, 7.10pm Simonds Stadium Fox Footy 7.00pm Weather: Min 16 Max 31 Chance of rain 30%: 1-5mm Wind: S 18kph Betting: Collingwood $2.45 Geelong $1.53

Collingwood will travel to Simonds Stadium for its second practice match at the venue in as many years when it takes on Geelong in the opening match of the 2014 NAB Challenge.

Squads
Collingwood: 1. Alex Fasolo 3. Brent Macaffer 4. Brodie Grundy 5. Nick Maxwell 7. Ben Kennedy 8. Heritier Lumumba 9. Marty Clarke 10. Scott Pendlebury 12. Luke Ball 13. Taylor Adams 14. Clinton Young 17. Dayne Beams 18. Jesse White 19. Jamie Elliott 21. Quinten Lynch 22. Steele Sidebottom 23. Lachlan Keeffe 25. Ben Hudson 26. Marley Williams 27. Tony Armstrong 29. Tim Broomhead 31. Jackson Ramsay 32. Travis Cloke 38. Peter Yagmoor 39. Nathan Freeman 41. Tom Langdon 45. Jack Frost 46. Jonathon Marsh 48. Caolan Mooney
Geelong: 1. Mitch Brown 2. Billie Smedts 3. Jimmy Bartel 4. Andrew Mackie 5. Travis Varcoe 6. Lincoln McCarthy 7. Harry Taylor 9. James Kelly 12. Jesse Stringer 13. Tom Lonergan 15. Jordan Schroder 16. Dawson Simpson 19. Taylor Hunt 20. Steven Johnson 22. Mitch Duncan 23. Josh Caddy 25. Jared Rivers 26. Tom Hawkins 27. Mathew Stokes 29. Cameron Guthrie 30. Nathan Vardy 31. George Burbury 33. George Horlin-Smith 34. Josh Walker 35. Jarrod Jansen 38. Jackson Sheringham 44. Corey Enright 45. Joel Hamling 46. Mark Blicavs

Missing in action
Collingwood: Jarryd Blair, Nathan Brown, Sam Dwyer, Tyson Goldsack, Patrick Karnezis, Adam Oxley, Ben Reid, Paul Seedsman, Ben Sinclair, Dane Swan, Josh Thomas, Alan Toovey, Jarrod Witts
Geelong: Allen Christensen, Shane Kersten, Hamish McIntosh, Daniel Menzel, Steven Motlop, Jordan Murdoch, Joel Selwood

New faces
Collingwood: Taylor Adams (20, Greater Western Sydney), Tony Armstrong (24, Sydney), Tim Broomhead (19, Port Adelaide Magpies), Nathan Freeman (18, Sandringham U18), Tom Langdon (19, Sandringham U18), Jonathon Marsh (18, East Fremantle), Jackson Ramsay (19, East Perth), Jesse White (26, Sydney)
Geelong: Jarrad Jansen (18, East Fremantle)

New numbers
Collingwood: Brodie Grundy (has moved from No. 35 to No. 4), Ben Kennedy (No. 27 to No. 7), Taylor Adams (No. 13), Jesse White (No. 18), Marley Williams (No. 46 to No. 26), Tony Armstrong (No. 27), Nathan Freeman (No. 39), Tom Langdon (No. 41), Jonathon Marsh (No. 46)
Geelong: Jarrad Jansen (No. 35)

Recent pre-season clashes
Practice Match 2013
Collingwood 13.12 (90)
Geelong 20.21 (141)
Goals
Collingwood: Lynch 4, Macaffer 2, Cloke 2, Swan 2, Pendlebury, Beams, Sinclair.
Geelong: Podsiadly 3, Bartel 2, Brown 2 Caddy 2, Christensen 2, Hunt, Duncan, Blivacs, Varcoe, Mackie, Murdoch, Stringer, Selwood, Schroder.
Best
Collingwood: Lynch, Beams, Brown, Pendlebury
Geelong: Caddy, Bartel, Selwood, Motlop, T.Hunt, Varcoe
Collingwood suffered a 51-point loss at the hands of Geelong in its final practice match of the 2013 pre-season at Simonds Stadium just eleven months ago. The Magpies were comprehensively out played in the first half before lifting in the third quarter when they kicked six goals to three. Post-match, coach Nathan Buckley praised the efforts of mature age rookie Sam Dwyer, Heritier Lumumba and Nathan Brown but said that there were few other winners in the Collingwood camp. Scarily, Geelong's run and carry through the middle of the ground was reminiscent of some of its best work in the 2011 Grand Final.
NAB Cup Grand Final 2009
Collingwood 1.6.6 (51)
Geelong 0.18.19 (127)
Crowd: 37,277 at Etihad Stadium
Supergoals
Collingwood: Bryan
Geelong: Nil
Goals
Collingwood: Thomas 2, Clarke, O'Bree, Beams, Cloke
Geelong: Ablett 3, S.Johnson 3, Selwood 2, Chapman 2, Lonergan 2, Stokes 2, Gamble, Varcoe
Best
Collingwood: Cox, Thomas, Lockyer, Pendlebury
Geelong: Selwood, Ablett, Chapman, Taylor, S.Johnson, Bartel
When scores were deadlocked on 23 apiece at the end of a fast-paced opening quarter, the 2009 NAB Cup Grand Final appeared set to become another in a line of epic clashes between the two teams. But all hopes of a meaningful contest were dashed by the Cats who broke the game apart with a six-goal second quarter and outscored the Magpies with 15 goals to four in the final three stanzas. Collingwood was powerless to restrain the competition's most powerful outfit that was still smarting from its Grand Final loss to Hawthorn six months earlier. This pre-season premier was not a flash in the pan – the Cats went on to knock off St Kilda in a thrilling Grand Final on 26 September.
Wizard Cup Semi Final 2003
Collingwood 5.8.0.10 (103)
Geelong 1.8.0.9 (66)
Crowd: 24,728 at Telstra Dome
Supergoals
Collingwood: Buckley 2, Fraser, Woewodin, Didak Geelong: Mooney
Goals
Collingwood: Buckley 2, Lockyer 2, Fraser, Tarrant, Davis, Woewodin Geelong: Ablett 2, Mooney, McCarthy, Riccardi, Kelly, Graham, Chapman
Best
Collingwood: Buckley, Woewodin, Lockyer, Fraser, Didak, Clement
Geelong: Corey, Riccardi, Sanderson, Scarlett
Collingwood won through to its first night series Grand Final since 1980 with a comprehensive 37-point win over Geelong under the Telstra Dome roof. Nathan Buckley was by far the best afield, kicking four goals for the night, two of which registered nine-points, and Shane Woewodin played his best game in his new colours after crossing from Melbourne during the off-season. Unfortunately the Grand Final didn't go to plan, with the Magpies beaten by an Adelaide side buoyed by the inclusion of new recruit Wayne Carey.

Collingwood at Kardinia Park (Simonds Stadium)
Played: 41
Won: 22
Lost: 19
Drawn: 0

The last time at Kardinia Park (Simonds Stadium)
Round 15 1999
Collingwood 19.11 (125)
Geelong 19.14 (128)
Crowd: 24,395 at Kardinia Park
Goals
Collingwood: S.Rocca 7, A.Rocca 3, Brown 3, Buckley 2, Freeborn, Tarrant, Richardson, King
Geelong: Snell 4, Houlihan 3, Riccardi 3, Mensch 2, Graham 2, Barnes, King, Corrigan, Stoneham, Burns
Disposals
Collingwood: Buckley 37, King 22, Lockyer 22, Brown 17, Lane 17
Geelong: Arnott 36, Milburn 24, Riccardi, Stoneham 21, Sholl 20

The first clash at Kardinia Park (Simonds Stadium)
Round 11 1941
Collingwood 14.12 (96)
Geelong 7.16 (58)
Crowd: 7500 at Kardinia Park
Goals
Collingwood: Green 4, Richards 3, Kyne 2, Swenson 2, Williams, Murphy, Unwin
Geelong: Arklay 3, White, Taylor, Heard, Harwood

The last win at Kardinia Park (Simonds Stadium)
Round 11 1988
Collingwood 16.7 (103)
Geelong 9.10 (64)
Crowd: 35,322 at Kardinia Park
Goals
Collingwood: Wright 4, Taylor 3, Starcevich 3, Barwick 2, Banks 2, Millane, Daicos
Geelong: Ablett 3, Turner 2, Scott, Brownless, Denham, Bairstow
Disposals
Collingwood: Shaw 36, Millane 34, Cloke 30, Brown 29, Daicos 23, Wright 23
Geelong: Bruns 37, Denham 30, Bairstow 28, Bews 27, Troy 27

Did you know that...

• Collingwood won 11 of its first 14 matches at Kardinia Park? The golden run began in the first match at the venue back in 1941 and continued until round 18, 1959. Geelong then won 12 of the next 17 meetings between the two sides at the ground.
• Darren Millane played his final game of league football at Kardinia Park? There was plenty at stake when the two sides ran out onto Kardinia Park in round 24, 1991, with Collingwood needing a win to secure a finals berth less than 12 months after winning the 1990 premiership. The Pies started well but ran out of steam in the second half with the Cats nearly doubling Collingwood's score to run out 41-point winners. Tragically, Millane (who gathered 17 possessions and kicked two behinds in the loss) was killed in a car accident only five weeks later.
• Kardinia Park has had four separate sponsors since 1998? The ground was known as Shell Stadium from 1998-2001, Skilled Stadium from 2002-2011 and Simonds Stadium since the start of last year. Its fourth name was Baytec Stadium, albeit for only two months in 2002.
• Collingwood's VFL team has played several matches at the ground in recent years? Since 2008, the VFL Magpies have won three of their six games at Kardinia Park.

What happens next?
Collingwood will be afforded nine days off between its two NAB Challenge matches. The players will hit the training track in the days that follow the match against Geelong before hitting the road and heading to Wangaratta to take on Richmond on 22 February.

2014 NAB Challenge Round 1: Collingwood v Geelong

Collingwood News

Collingwood v Geelong Wednesday Feb 12, 7.10pm Simonds Stadium Fox Footy 7.00pm Weather: Min 16 Max 31 Chance of rain 30%: 1-5mm Wind: S 18kph Betting: Collingwood $2.45 Geelong $1.53

Collingwood's band of new recruits will be in the spotlight when they line up to face Geelong in the opening clash of the NAB Challenge at Simonds Stadium on Wednesday night.
Midfielder Taylor Adams, defender Tony Armstrong, forward Jesse White and draftees Nathan Freeman, Tom Langdon and Jonathon Marsh have been named in a 26 man squad poised to tackle the Cats as the sides usher the arrival of the 2014 pre-season campaign.
The off-season arrivals will be joined by two further fresh additions to the senior team, with Tim Broomhead and Jackson Ramsay poised to feature in a competitive AFL fixture for the first time since being drafted in 2012.
Having rejuvenated its list with an influx of exciting, emerging talent during the trade and draft periods late last year, the team named to take on Geelong represents the changing face of the Collingwood, with the club entering the campaign boasting the sixth youngest, yet seventh most experienced list in the AFL.
That figure bodes well for the future as Collingwood seeks to extend the longest active finals streak in the AFL, which currently stands at eight consecutive appearances.
Although the team named to face Geelong will undoubtedly provide a portent of what lies on the horizon in the seasons to come, the strength of the side named, in spite of the absence of a host of established stars, highlights the significant reserves of on-field talent accrued at the Westpac Centre.
Indeed, a combination of injury and squad rotation has conspired to see senior team regulars Jarryd Blair, Nathan Brown, Sam Dwyer, Ben Reid, Paul Seedsman, Dane Swan, Josh Thomas and Alan Toovey unavailable for selection.

The Team
1. Alex Fasolo 3. Brent Macaffer 4. Brodie Grundy 5. Nick Maxwell 7. Ben Kennedy 8. Heritier Lumumba 9. Marty Clarke 10. Scott Pendlebury 12. Luke Ball 13. Taylor Adams 14. Clinton Young 17. Dayne Beams 18. Jesse White 19. Jamie Elliott 21. Quinten Lynch	22. Steele Sidebottom 23. Lachlan Keeffe 25. Ben Hudson 26. Marley Williams 27. Tony Armstrong 29. Tim Broomhead 31. Jackson Ramsay 32. Travis Cloke 38. Peter Yagmoor 39. Nathan Freeman 41. Tom Langdon 45. Jack Frost 46. Jonathon Marsh 48. Caolan Mooney

New Faces
13. Taylor Adams A big-bodied midfielder who landed at Collingwood as part of the deal that saw Heath Shaw become a Giant. Was drafted at No. 13 in the 2011 National Draft and has already impressed with his attitude and love of winning the contested ball.	18. Jesse White After a strong finish to the season with Sydney, White crossed to the Westpac Centre after being identified by the Magpies as a man who can give Travis Cloke and Quinten Lynch a helping hand up forward as well as assisting young ruckmen Brodie Grundy and Jarrod Witts when the time comes.
27. Tony Armstrong Now at his third club, Armstrong, a hard running defender with nice foot skills, will be looking to stake an early claim for a spot in Collingwood's back six come round one.	29. Tim Broomhead Put in some eye-catching showings for Collingwood's VFL side to the point where he was named as a senior emergency midway through last season. Glandular fever derailed his 2013 pre-season but the No. 20 selection in the 2012 National Draft is set to make an early impact in his second year on the list.
31. Jackson Ramsay A professional and dedicated West Australian who was the second youngest player in the league last season. Was hampered by injury early in 2013 but came home with a rush, impressing with his discipline and attack on the ball at half back.	39. Nathan Freeman With his pace and endurance, it's easy to see why he was the 10th selection in last November's National Draft. Has been impressive on the training track in his first months as a Magpie and in time could end up at half back or on the wing.
41. Tom Langdon Has prior experience in playing senior football, having spent time as a top-up player for VFL club Sandringham last season. A rangy utility who appears best suited to playing in defence, Langdon was one of the most prolific players in last Saturday's intra-club practice match.	46. Jonathon Marsh His highlights package excited recruiters and supporters last November. From fend offs to long runs that ended in goals, it had it all. Marsh, an explosively quick West Australian who stands 193cm, became a Magpie with the 77th selection in last year's National Draft.

Preseason Competition TV

Wednesday, February 12
Geelong v Collingwood	Kardinia	7:10PM EDT	Fox Footy
Saturday, February 22
Collingwood v Richmond	Wangaratta	4:40PM EDT	Fox Footy

Swan and 'Harry' Sign New Contracts

SUPERFOOTY

DANE Swan has pledged to finish his career with Collingwood after signing a new deal that will take him through to the end of the 2016 season.
In a week in which the Magpies announced Scott Pendlebury as their new captain, the club will publicly announce Swan's two-year extension at tomorrow's Family Day.
Swan's new deal means he will be wearing the black and white jumper until he is at least 32.
The contract negotiations stretch back to late last year with much speculation in the months since about when the new deal would be completed.
It has all been sorted now and will officially be announced to the club faithful at the Westpac Centre tomorrow.
The Brownlow medallist, who turns 30 on February 25, had originally planned to walk away from the game at the end of this year, saying in 2012 that he had no intention of playing well into his 30s.
But Swan's continued outstanding form and his desire to achieve more success with the Magpies brought about a change of heart.
Swan made his feelings clear at last year's Copeland Trophy when he said he never intended playing elsewhere, despite the loss of some of his best mates.
At the time, Swan said he wanted to be "a Pie for life", saying not even the departures of Dale Thomas and Alan Didak could impact on those feelings.
Swan said that night: "It's a great footy club to be involved with, I love the footy club.
"I certainly don't plan on playing anywhere else - ever. I'll be a Pie for life."
Swan said recently he wanted to have the contract finalised before the start of the home-and-away season.
The prolific midfielder sits right up there among the list of Collingwood greats, having won three Copeland trophies - only Nathan Buckley (six), Len Thompson (five) and Bob Rose) have won more - as well as the 2011 Brownlow Medal and five successive All Australian selections.
The durable Swan had a wrist reconstruction after the Magpies' 2013 season ended, saying he is looking forward to greater strength in both hands this year.
He has played 219 games for Collingwood since his 2003 debut. Only 22 other Magpies have played more games than the decorated midfielder.

Meanwhile, wingman Heritier Lumumba is the latest Magpie to re-sign with the club.
Lumumba's decision to re-commit was made public at the Magpies' family day at the Westpac Centre.
Lumumba's career was at the crossroads last year following a private-turned-public spat with Magpies coach Nathan Buckley.
The enigmatic wingman formerly known as Harry O'Brien took time away from the club mid-season to clear his mind.
He returned to play out the season including Collingwood's shock elimination final loss to Port Adelaide.
Lumumba, like Swan a premiership player and All-Australian in 2010, is in his 10th season at the Westpac Centre. He won the Jack Regan Trophy last year for a fifth place finish in the Copeland Trophy count.
The 27 year-old reinvented himself as a wingman in 2013 after spending much of his career as a member of the Collingwood back six.
He has played 178 matches and kicked 25 goals.

Profile: Scott Pendlebury

Scott Pendlebury Perhaps the prototype of the modern midfielder. Sleek, skillful and slippery, Pendlebury is one of the bona fide stars of the competition. Forms a powerful midfield quartet alongside Dane Swan, Luke Ball and Dayne Beams and his ability to win the contested ball as well as use his creativity in open space has made him one of the hardest players to tag. His graceful style of play belies his hardness, for he is a fierce tackler and renowned for his abilities at the bottom of the packs. Often appears to be playing at a different tempo to the other players on the field, such is his calmness that stems from playing as a point guard in basketball teams in his youth. Boasts an imposing trophy cabinet, with his crowning glory his 2010 Norm Smith Medal. Has been a vice-captain of the club since 2009 and, at 26, is only just entering the prime years of his career.

At A Glance Junior Clubs: Sale (VIC) Clubs: Collingwood (2006-2014) Debut: Round 10 2006 v Brisbane Recruited from: Gippsland U18 Brownlow Votes: 102 Career AFL: 171 games, 113 goals VFL: 10 games, 4 goals NAB Cup: 16 games, 5 goals Milestones AFL Debut: Collingwood v Brisbane, Round 10 2006 MCG 50 AFL Games: Collingwood v St Kilda, Round 19 2008 MCG 100 AFL Games: Collingwood v Geelong, Preliminary Final 2010 MCG 150 AFL Games: Collingwood v Carlton, Round 2 2013 MCG Draft History Selected at No. 5 (by Collingwood) in the 2005 National Draft

 Stats

Awards
AFL Collingwood Premiership Side 2010 Collingwood Pre-Season Premiership Side 2011 Norm Smith Medal 2010 (Grand Final Replay) Runner-Up AFL Rising Star Award 2007 AFL Rising Star Nomination Round 4 2007 v Port Adelaide All-Australian 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013 All-Australian Nominee 2009 Brownlow Medal Third Place: 2011 (equal) ANZAC Day Medal 2010, 2011 International Rules Series 2008	Club Copeland Trophy (Best-and-Fairest) 2011, 2013 R.T. Rush Trophy (2nd Best-and-Fairest) 2007, 2010, 2012 J.J. Joyce Trophy (3rd Best and Fairest) 2008 Darren Millane Perpetual Memorial Trophy (Best Clubman) 2013 Bob Rose Award (Best Player in Finals) 2011, 2012 Other Gippsland Power TAC Cup Premiership Side 2005

Collingwood Captains

Collingwood News

The captaincy of the Collingwood Football Club is an honour bestowed on only 45 of the 1099 players to wear the black and white stripes since 1897.
When deciding upon the club's captain in 2009, then-coach Mick Malthouse believed that the traits required to lead the club included selflessness, the ability to motivate others, credibility (meaning players trust him on and off the field), and whether he lives the club (meaning he requires a sense of its history and current operations). The player chosen was Nick Maxwell, who went on to lead Collingwood to its 15th premiership in 2010.
The list does not include vice-captains and deputy vice-captains who filled in on match day for an unavailable captain.

1. Bill Strickland 1897
Played 1897; 16 games, 0 Goals; DOB: 17 August 1864
Collingwood's first ever captain in the VFL was one of the club's shining lights in the VFA in 1890s.
2. Bill Proudfoot 1898-99, 1901
Played 1897-1906; 108 games, 0 goals; DOB: 11 June 1868
A giant in Collingwood's early years, Proudfoot was a powerful, vigorous key defender who played in the 1902 and 1903 premiership teams.
3. Dick Condon 1899-1900
Played 1897-1900 & 1902-06; 148 games, 104 goals; DOB 19 March 1876; Ht 180 cm, Wt 72 kg
One of the greatest players of his era, Condon possessed rare flair and outstanding skills, and was rover in the 1902 and 1903 premiership teams. A unique character who clashed with team mates and club officials, he also served as playing coach in 1905-06.
4. Lardie Tulloch 1902-04
Played 1897-1904; 132 games, 67 goals; DOB: 15 April 1871
Captain of the 1902 and 1903 premiership teams, Tulloch is the only man to have captained a league premiership and to have umpired a grand final (1907). A greatly respected, robust player who could play at either end of the ground.
5. Charlie H. Pannam 1905
Played 1897-1907; 179 games, 111 goals; DOB 2 Oct 1874; Ht 173 cm, Wt 79 kg
A famous flying wingman who was one of the great players of the Magpies' early days and a member of the 1902 and 1903 premiership teams. Pannam was quick, clever and had excellent skills, and was the first man to play 100 VFL games. Noted for his consistency and ability to play well in finals, he was rated the Magpies' best afield in the 1903 flag success and second best in 1902. A six-time Victorian representative, Pannam went forward late in his career and topped the league goal kicking in 1905 with 38, the same year he captained Collingwood. The grand father of Magpie great Lou Richards.
6. Alf Dummett 1906
Played 1901-1910; 118 games, 10 goals; DOB 8 December 1880
A star defender who played in the 1902 and 1903 premiership teams. Later served Collingwood for many years in a number of capacities, including vice-president. Dummett was Victoria chairman of selectors from 1936-52.
7. Arthur Leach 1906-08
Played 1898-1908; 173 games, 92 goals
Recruited to Collingwood after one season with Essendon, Leach had great worth ethic, strength and endurance, and was part of the 1902 and 1903 premiership teams. Reliable and versatile, Leach could play a variety of positions, and was named in the forward pocket in both flag successes. Also played in losing grand final sides of 1901 and 1905.
8. Eddie Drohan 1908
Played 1903-1908; 96 games, 54 goals
Played in a premiership in his first year at Collingwood after crossing from Fitzroy, where he'd played in two flags. Took a while to find his feet in black and white but at his best was a dashing wingman and his class shone through as his career wore on at Collingwood.
9. Bob Nash 1908-09
Played 1904-09; 88 games, 14 goals
A splendid high mark who developed into a fine player and was regarded as a good tactician. Had a strong kick and represented Victoria in 1908.
10. George Angus 1910-11
Played 1902-11; 157 games, 64 goals; DOB 15 April 1975
A triple premiership player (1902, 1903, 1910), Angus was a follower or half forward who didn't make his league debut until he was 27. Was also playing coach in 1909 before taking over as captain-coach for 1910-11.
11. Jock McHale 1912-13
Played 1903-1918 & 1920; 261 games; DOB: 12 December 1882
After initially being rejected by Collingwood, McHale developed into one of the most durable players of all time, stringing together 191 consecutive games between 1906 and 1917. Began as a half back but eventually moved into the centre where he built his fine reputation. A member of Collingwood's premiership sides of 1910 and 1917, and also played in the losing grand final sides of 1905, 1911 and 1915, and went on to forge the most successful coaching career in league history. McHale was captain-coach in 1912-13, playing coach from 1914-17 and non-playing coach from 1918-49. Coached Collingwood for a total of 714 matches for 467 wins and eight premierships. A member of Collingwood's team of the century (interchange), and an Australian Football Hall of Fame legend.
12. Dan Minogue 1914-16
Played 1911-16; 85 games, 37 goals; DOB 4 September 1891; Ht 183 cm, Wt 92 kg
Minogue could play anywhere as was used as a half back, half forward or ruckman. Had enormous strength and durability and limitless courage. Famously played out the 1911 grand final after breaking his collarbone in the first minute. Went on to play another 96 games with Richmond and Hawthorn between 1920-26 after returning from the war.
13. Percy Wilson 1917-18
Played 1909-20; 183 games, 71 goals; DOB 31 March 1889
Wilson was a star rover and forward from the moment he arrived at Victoria Park. Had a bad run with injury, but was a clever, tricky rover who was a beautiful pass on the run. Captain of the 1917 premiership, he missed the 1910 and 1919 flags through injury.
14. Con McCarthy 1919
Played 1915-21; 101 games, 22 goals; DOB 19 February 1893
McCarthy had enormous physical strength and was a fitness fanatic who enjoyed training in an era where it was unusual to do so. Played in the premiership team in 1917 and then captain the flag side in 1919, in between playing in the losing grand final team of 1918. McCarthy was a fine shepherder, mark and kick, and represented Victoria five times.
15. Dick Lee 1920-21
Played 1906-22; 230 games, 707 goals; DOB 19 March 1889; Ht 175 cm, Wt 70 kg
One of the first of football's great forwards, and raised standards of forward play. He was a wonderful ground player and deadly kick for goal who had the ability to soar for marks. Lee headed the VFL goal kicking from 1907 to 1910, 1914, shared the lead in 1915 and won again in 1916, 1917, 1919 and 1921. His tally of 66 in 1915 was the highest in the first 25 years of VFL football. A member of three premiership teams (1910, 1917 and 1919), Lee represented Victoria an astonishing 17 times and his 11-goal haul in 1914 created a VFL record. Sustained many injuries but was extremely courageous and often played through them. Made the number 13 famous.
16. Tom Drummond 1922
Played 1916-22; 94 games, 6 goals; Ht 170 cm, Wt 68 kg
A clever wingman who was a fine ball-handler and excellent mark for his size. A member of the 1917 and 1919 premiership sides, Drummond also represented Victoria in 1921 and 1922.
17. Harry Curtis 1923
Played 1914-23; 122 games, 149 goals; DOB 3 October 1892; Ht 189 cm, Wt 79 kg
Tall and lean, Curtis was dumped after one season at Carlton, but crossed to Collingwood where he established himself as a fine centre-half forward for a decade. A key player in the 1917 and 1919 grand final wins, Curtis went on to serve as president for a record 25 years.
18. Charlie Tyson 1924-26
Played 1920-26; 106 games, 42 goals; DOB 14 November 1897
One of Collingwood's earliest greats, Tyson became a tremendously reliable half back flanker. Strong and courageous, he represented Victoria three times.
19. Syd Coventry 1927-34
Played 1922-34; 227 games, 62 goals; DOB 13 June 1899; Ht 182 cm, Wt 85 kg
One of Collingwood's greatest ever captains, Coventry led the Magpies to four successive premierships from 1927-1930. Also won the Brownlow Medal in 1927 with seven best-on-ground performances, and won Collingwood's best and fairest in 1927 and 1932. Despite standing just 182 centimetres, Coventry was extremely vigorous and ideally suited to ruck work. Showed outstanding leadership qualities, and a fearless protector of smaller team mates. The older brother of goal-kicking legend Gordon, Syd represented Victoria 27 times from 1922-33.
20. Harry Collier 1935-39
Played 1926-40; 253 games, 299 goals; DOB 1 October 1907; Ht 173 cm, Wt 74 kg
A brilliant rover with great goal sense and uncanny ball skills, the incredibly courageous Collier's career was one of the greatest of any at Victoria Park as he won two best and fairests (1928 and 1930) and played in six premiership teams. The Colliers are the only brothers to have won Brownlow Medals, after Harry's younger brother Albert won the award in 1929, and Harry was retrospectively awarded the medal for 1930.
21. Jack Regan 1940-41, 1943
Played 1930-41, 1943 and 1946; 196 games, 3 goals; DOB 12 September 1912; Ht 187 cm, 81 kg
Regan was the prince of full backs in an era of champion full forwards. Many good judges regard Regan as the greatest full back the game has even seen. His duels with South Melbourne great Bob Pratt were legendary. Best and fairest in 1936 and third in the Brownlow in 1934, Regan was fast, dashing and a long kick and a regular Victoria representative, captain the state in 1941. He played in the Magpie premierships of 1935 and 36, and served the club tremendously as secretary from 1969-77.
22. Phonse Kyne 1942, 1946-49
Played 1934-44 and 1946-50; 245 games, 237 goals; DOB 29 August 1915; Ht 188 cm, Wt 86 kg
One of Collingwood's greatest ever servants, Kyne began with the Magpies as a centre half-forward and played there in the 1935 and 1936 premiership sides. After that he was utilised as a ruckman, and was mobile and a clever palmer of the ball. Unlike many players he returned from World War 2 to be a dominant player winning the famed Copeland Trophy three times from 1946. Represented Victoria nine times, and later went on to coach the Magpies to two premierships between 1950 and 1963.
23. Pat Fricker 1944
Played 1935-41 & 44; 71 games; DOB 9 March 1916; Ht 178 cm, Wt 70 kg
A handy utility who captained the club for one season and played on the wing in the losing 1939 grand final side.
24. Alby Pannam 1945
Played 1933-43 & 1945; 181 games, 453 goals; DOB 19 April 1914; Ht 168 cm, Wt 63 kg
The son of another Magpie captain Charles H Pannam (1905), Alby established a reputation as one of the trickiest and most deadly rover/forwards in league football. Small and light, he could kick goals from anywhere and could doge and baulk brilliantly. He played in the premiership teams of 1935 and 1936 and was rated Collingwood's best in '36. Won the club best and fairest in 1942 having represented Victoria the previous year..
25. Gordon Hocking 1950-51
Played 1938-41 & 1943-52; 171 games, 78 goals; DOB 12 August 1919; Ht 178 cm, Wt 81 kg
Despite standing on 178 centimetres, he was Collingwood ruckman for the best part of 15 years. Hocking relished hard work and was extremely determined. He played in losing grand final sides in his first two seasons and went on to captain Victoria.
26. Lou Richards 1952-55
Played 1941-55; 250 games, 423 goals; DOB 15 March 1923; Ht 170 cm, Wt 72 kg
Richards became a legend on and off the field. The nephew of Magpie hero Alby Pannam, Richards was an immensely courageous rover and became a favourite of the Magpie faithful. His greatest on-field achievement was leading the Magpies to the 1953 premiership. Twice and runner-up in the best-and-fairest and three times the club's leading goal kicker (1944, 48, 50), Richards was also a Victorian representative. Upon retiring he became one of the most-loved media personalities and commentators.
27. Neil Mann 1955-56
Played 1945-56; 179 games, 155 goals; DOB 12 August 1924; Ht 188 cm, Wt 82 kg
Famous for having the biggest pair of hands in the game, Mann was a great mark. In the early stages of his career alternated between full-forward and centre half-forward, but really began to make his mark when switched to centre half-back. In 1953 he was one of the best in the premiership win and ran third in the Brownlow and the following year ran second in the Brownlow and won the Copeland Trophy. Mann captained two losing grand final teams in 1955 and 56, represented Victoria 10 times and went on to coach the Magpies from 1972-74.
28. Bill Twomey 1957
Played 1945-58; 189 games, 154 goals; DOB 28 September 1927; Ht 179 cm, Wt 76 kg
A gifted and spectacular player, Twomey had the strength of a big man and pace of a small player. He played in a variety of positions and starred in them all. He even excelled at full forward, kicking eight in one dazzling final against Footscray and also bagged 11 in one home-and-away game. Twomey oozed talent, however was dropped in 1951, but fought back to play in the 1953 premiership team and won the Copeland Trophy in 1956. Represented Victoria seven times.
29. Frank Tuck 1958-59
Played 1950-59; 131 games, 34 goals; DOB 24 July 1931; Ht 183 cm 78 kg
A strong and fearless half back who possessed a good mark and long kick. He was one of the game's unluckiest players, missing the 1953 flag through suspension and being forced out of the 1958 premiership with a torn thigh, his first year as captain.
30. Murray Weideman 1960-63
Played 1953-63; 180 games, 262 goals; DOB 16 February 1936; Ht 187 cm, 96 kg
One of the toughest and most uncompromising Magpies ever. In 1952 he trained with Collingwood and wasn't considered good enough for the thirds. By the end of the following year he was 20th man in a premiership side. Once he became captain, he developed a reputation as an enforcer, playing as a high-flying, aggressive centre half-forward. Led Collingwood to the 1958 flag in place of the injured Frank Tuck. A three-time Copeland Trophy winner (1957, 61 & 62) and five-time Victorian representative, Weideman retired at just 27. Later coached Collingwood in 1975-76.
31. Ray Gabelich 1964-65
Played 1955-60 & 1962-66; 160 games, 43 goals; DOB 3 July 1934; Ht 193 cm, Wt 109 kg
A massive ruckman whose huge frame made him virtually unbeatable at throw-ins. He was a safe mark and penetrating kick, and won the Copeland Trophy in 1960. Shocked the football world by returning to his native Western Australia in 1961, but by 1962 was back at Victoria Park and was made vice-captain. He took over from Murray Weideman as captain in 1964 and led the Magpies to the grand final in that year. His final match was the losing 1966 grand final.
32. John Henderson 1965
Played 1957-66; 144 games, 28 goals; DOB 31 August 1938; Ht 187 cm, Wt 91 kg
A highly skilled player who started out as a half back flanker before moving into the centre. A quick, daring player who was a member of the 1958 premiership team and ran third in the 1963 Brownlow Medal, and starred in each week of the 1964 finals campaign.
33. Des Tuddenham 1966-69, 1976
Played 1962-71 & 1976-77; 182 games, 251 goals; DOB 29 January 1943; Ht 180 cm, Wt 83 kg
One of the toughest Magpies ever, and certainly one of the club's greatest on-field leaders. A ferocious competitor and always one to impose himself physically, Tuddenham played his best football on the half forward flank, and embodied everything Collingwood stood for in its greatest days. Played in three losing grand finals, including being skipper of the one-point loss in 1966, and captained Victoria in 1971.
34. Terry Waters 1970-71
Played 1963-72; 163 games; DOB 14 December 1943; Ht 188 cm, Wt 85 kg
Started his career in attack and led the club's goal kicking in his first two seasons. Developed a reputation as one of the best marks in the game, and by the 1966 grand final was playing in defence, when he was rated the Magpies' best in the one-point loss, in the same season he won the Copeland Trophy. Played in two other losing grand finals in 1964 and 1970, represented Victoria eight times and was an All-Australian in 1969.
35. Wayne Richardson 1971-75
Played 1966-78; 277 games, 323 goals; DOB 12 August 1946; Ht 179 cm, Wt 76 kg
One of the finest players of his era and a true Collingwood champion, Richardson was extremely skilled at reading the play as a rover. Twice a winner of the Copeland Trophy (1971 & 1974), he was also a regular Victoria representative and served Collingwood with tremendous distinction as a player and returned to Victoria Park as a director in 1986..
36. Max Richardson 1977
Played 1969-78; 211 games, 158 goals; DOB 24 December 1948; Ht 183 cm, Wt 87 kg
The younger brother of Wayne, Max was an extremely versatile player who could play midfield and also in defence with distinction. Was runner-up to his brother in the Copeland Trophy in 1974.
37. Len Thompson 1978
Played 1965-78; 270 games, 217 goals; DOB 27 August 1947; Ht 200 cm, Wt 95 kg
One of the first giant ruckman to combine outstanding ruck play with around-the-ground mobility and skill, Thompson was a truly gifted athlete. A five-time Copeland Trophy winner and winner of the 1972 Brownlow Medal, he was vice-captain for five years before leading the club in 1978, and was twice captain of Victoria. One of his greatest disappointments was playing in four grand finals without a premiership.
38. Ray Shaw 1979-80
Played 1974-81; 146 games, 200 goals; DOB 27 April 1954; Ht 175 cm, Wt 70 kg
Shaw won himself a reputation as one of the best rovers in the competition. He won the Copeland Trophy in 1978 and represented Victoria in 1979.
39. Peter Moore 1981-82
Played 1974-82; 172 games, 193 goals; DOB 11 January 1957; Ht 198 cm, Wt 80 kg
An extremely tall, athletic ruckman, Moore's running ability made him almost impossible for opposition big men to match up on. In 1979 he took over as the club's number one ruckman when Len Thompson departed and won the Brownlow Medal, and two years later was made captain.
40. Mark Williams 1983-86
Played 1981-86; 135 games, 178 goals; DOB 21 August 1958; Ht 183 cm, 80 kg
A ferociously competitive midfielder and son of SA legend Fos Williams, he won the Copeland Trophy and represented Victoria in his first year at Collingwood. Also played in the losing grand final team of 1981. A loyal servant of the club, Williams proved to be an excellent captain and won his second Copeland Trophy in 1985.
41. Tony Shaw 1987-93
Played 1977-94; 313 games, 159 goals; DOB 23 July 1960; Ht 170 cm, Wt 80 kg
A superbly courageous centreman who famously led the Magpies to the 1990 flag, winning the Norm Smith Medal as best player on the ground. Also won the Copeland Trophy in 1990, his second best-and-fairest after his 1984 triumph. Part of one of Collingwood's most famous families, his brothers Neville and Ray also played. Later coached Collingwood in 1996.
42. Gavin Brown 1994-98
Played 1987-2000; 254 games, 195 goals; DOB 25 September 1967; Ht 184 cm, Wt 86 kg
One of Collingwood's favourite sons, Brown is remembered as an extremely courageous player who started his career on the wing and played in the 1990 premiership team. A three-time Copeland Trophy winner and two-time All-Australian, Brown also led Victoria with distinction and also proved an extremely effective forward option.
43. Nathan Buckley 1999-2007
Played 1994-2007; 260 games, 263 goals; DOB 26 July 1972; Ht 186 cm, Wt 90 kg
One of the all-time greats of the game and arguably the best ever to pull on the black and white stripes, Buckley's record speaks for itself. Six Copeland Trophies (1994, 1996, 1998, 1999, 2000, 2003), a Brownlow Medal (2003), Norm Smith Medal (2003) and seven-time All-Australian (1996, 1997, 1998, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2003). Became the club's most capped skipper when he led the Magpies for the 154th time in the thrilling round 21 victory over Port in 2006. Came to the club in 1994 after one season with Brisbane and immediately stamped his brilliance on the club, tying with Gavin Brown for the first of his best-and-fairest awards, and setting the tone for a brilliant career with Collingwood after one season with Brisbane.
44. Scott Burns 2008
Played 1995-2008; 264 games, 149 goals; DOB 23 December 1974; Ht 181 cm, Wt 85 kg
One of the toughest and most respected Magpie midfielders of the modern era, Burns has now played 264 games in 14 seasons at Collingwood after being drafted from South Australian club Norwood. Enjoyed his finest seasons in the grand final years of 2002 and 2003 when he finished second and third respectively in the Copeland Trophy voting, while also being judged the club's best finals player in 2002. Also a recipient of the Darren Millane Memorial Trophy as best clubman in 2004, while his potential was recognised in 1995 when he was named Collingwood's best first-year player. A deserving recipient of the captaincy.
45. Nick Maxwell 2009-2012
Played 2004-2012 ; 179 games, 28 goals; DOB 3 June 1983; Ht 193 cm, Wt 92 kg
A success story of the rookie-list system, Maxwell made his debut in 2004 and has developed into one of the team's toughest, most courageous and versatile players. His durability is also one of his strengths, and he was rewared for his fine on and off field leadership by being appointed captain of the club for the 2009 season, following the retirement of Scott Burns. Maxwell became Collingwood's 11th premiership captain when he led the Magpies to their extraordinary win over St Kilda in the 2010 Grand Final replay. He was one of the side's best in both the drawn and replayed Grand Finals.

Scott Pendlebury 2014 Captain

Collingwood News

The appointment of the 46th Collingwood captain was confirmed on Wednesday night with the announcement of Scott Pendlebury as successor to one of the club’s great modern leaders, Nick Maxwell.
Pendlebury will head a new look Collingwood leadership team in 2014, one that will include Maxwell and the respected Luke Ball but also feature a number of other players who have been recognised for their preparedness to lead on and off the field.
In all, the 2014 leadership group comprises eight players; Pendlebury as captain, Maxwell, Ball, Nathan Brown, Lachlan Keeffe, Steele Sidebottom, Clinton Young and Travis Cloke.
At 26 years of age, Pendlebury is just the fifth Collingwood captain to be appointed in the last two decades.
“It’s a tremendous honour and obviously a privilege,” said Pendlebury, who used the occasion of his elevation to acknowledge Maxwell’s five seasons of leadership and the recent decision he took to relinquish the post.
“I’m following in the steps of a great Collingwood captain. ‘Maxy’ led the side to a premiership and will play more than 200 games in black and white but I think that when his record is judged the selfless culture he worked to create and is so passionate about will be among his finest achievements.
“As a leader he laid out a path so many of us are now following and I’m sure he will continue to guide the group this year. He is a leader, with or without a title. That’s the sort of person he is. He sees this as a great opportunity for growth."
Collingwood coach Nathan Buckley also lauded Maxwell, as did Collingwood president Eddie McGuire.
“He has lived the Collingwood values, brought them to life for his team-mates in a way that few could have,” Buckley said.
“The fans see it in his play on match day but his team-mates, coaches and staff see it and feel it in action every day."
McGuire added: “Just as the US president is always a president, Nick Maxwell will always be a Collingwood captain. A Collingwood premiership captain,” McGuire said.
“He belongs in our pantheon as one of the great figures in Collingwood’s history and his decision, having given so much, to stand down and support Scott typifies his leadership. Hopefully, Scott can join him in the premiership captain’s club as quickly as possible.”
Maxwell congratulated his successor and said that when he realised the time for a change of leadership had arrived it was reassuring to know that Pendlebury was there to take over.
“You hope that you can step out at the appropriate time and have the right person to pass the torch on to. It is the appropriate time and ‘Pendles’ is the right person,” said Maxwell, who is one of only 11 Collingwood premiership captains and one of just four living.
“With so much strong and new leadership emerging, and a different side with it, it’s the perfect time for a new captain to take over.”
Pendlebury’s time has come as he moves into the sweet spot of his already decorated career.
The first round draft pick of 2005 has played 171 matches, won a Norm Smith Medal (2010 Replay), collected four All-Australian jumpers, won two Copeland trophies and figured in the top three of the Collingwood best and fairest count in six of his eight years in the game but is just entering his prime as a player.
He has been resilient and consistently brilliant on-field, an able lieutenant to Maxwell for five years and a figure in the change room who, according to Buckley, has been an outstanding professional from the day in late 2005 when he packed his bags and left Sale for the Westpac Centre.
“What ‘Pendles’ does on the football field is the tip of the iceberg. He is relentless in pursuit of improvement in himself and the team, has great respect for his opportunity in this game, with this club, and has built strong relationships among the playing group and staff. All qualities that ensure his continued influence as a leader” Buckley said.
“Building leadership depth and breadth is a real objective of ours. When a fresh group of leaders, viewed by their peers as most worthy, accept the responsibility and carry a real hunger to drive our preparation and performance, it's exciting to see. There is plenty of work to do but ‘Pendles’ certainly won’t be one-out."

Forthcoming Milestones

Collingwood News

The upcoming 2014 AFL season is poised to be a season of milestones for the Collingwood playing group, with a host of the club's stars on the verge of registering career landmarks.
In anticipation of the upcoming season, collingwoodfc.com.au has compiled a list of forthcoming achievements, and the rounds in which it is projected players will reach them.

1. Alex Fasolo 50 games - Round 11 v St Kilda
After an injury interrupted 2013 campaign, Alex Fasolo will have the chance to make his long awaited 50th appearance at AFL level this season. Drafted in 2010, Fasolo made an immediate impact upon his arrival at the Westpac Centre, playing 13 senior games during his debut year, before consolidating his place in the Magpies best 22 during 2012. While Fasolo is unlikely to be rushed in his recovery from a foot injury, the West Australian is making strong progress during the pre-season.

5. Nick Maxwell 200 games - Round 2 v Sydney
Having been elevated from the club's rookie list in 2004, Nick Maxwell's remarkable AFL journey will see another chapter etched when the defender makes his 200th senior appearance in 2014. The 2010 Premiership captain has been a beacon of consistency throughout his time in Black and White, Maxwell's tenacity and competitive spirit has made him revered among his peers, with his devotion to the Collingwood cause ensuring he will enter the pantheon of club greats.

8. Heritier Lumumba 200 games - Round 23 vs Hawthorn
After claiming the Jack Regan Trophy for his fifth place finish in last year's Copeland Trophy, Heritier Lumumba will have his eye on another milestone in 2014, with the Brazilian born utility poised to make his 200th senior appearance towards the end of the season. A product of the rookie draft, Lumumba's story is made all the more remarkable by his unlikely road to the AFL, with the West Australian memorably training with the Magpies in the hope of winning over the club's recruiting staff in late 2004 and subsequently earning a berth on the Collingwood list.

11. Jarryd Blair 100 games - Round 20 vs. West Coast Eagles
Enjoying a meteoric rise to prominence after claiming an AFL premiership in just his 12th game at senior level, Jarryd Blair has been an ever present member of the Collingwood best 22 over the past four seasons. With his uncompromising approach having made him an indispensable member of Nathan Buckley's side, the versatile Blair is on track to play game number 100 during a campaign which will see the utility assume the mantle of elder statesman following another influx of emerging talent.

13. Taylor Adams 50 games - Round 20 vs. West Coast Eagles
While his Collingwood career remains in its infancy, Taylor Adams is set to pass the first key signpost of his career while wearing Black and White. An industrious inside midfielder, Adams has made significant strides during the pre-season, impressing the club's coaching staff with his assiduous approach to preparation, ensuring he will feature in selection discussions come round one.

16. Nathan Brown 100 games - Round 11 vs. St Kilda
A lynchpin of Collingwood's defence throughout the most successful era in the team's modern history, Nathan Brown will finally join the 100-game club this year as he approaches his seventh season at senior level. Brown's consistency and strength in contested situations has ensured he remains one of the first players named on the Collingwood team sheet each week, with the full back role he occupies one he has certainly made his own.

17. Dayne Beams 100 games - Round 12 vs. Melbourne
Were it not for the quadriceps injury which derailed his 2013 season, Dayne Beams would have joined his 2008 draft contemporary Steele Sidebottom in playing his 100th game last year. Already a Premiership player, Copeland Trophy winner and All-Australian, Beams' intrepid midfield stylings and goal kicking prowess has seen him rapidly climb the AFL stratum and establish himself among the upper echelon of ball winners across the competition.

19. Jamie Elliott 50 games - Round 16 vs. Gold Coast Suns
Jamie Elliott's 2013 breakout season will ensure the small forward will be unable to glide into the upcoming campaign under the radar of opposition clubs. The reigning winner of Mark of the Year, Elliott possesses a leap and contested marking ability which belies his size, with his highlight stealing ways making him a firm favourite of the Collingwood faithful.

20. Ben Reid 100 games - Round 5 vs. North Melbourne
Such was Ben Reid's transformation into gun tall forward towards the latter half of 2013 that it became lost on some that only two years prior, the 24-year old had been selected at centre half back in the All-Australian team. After kicking five goals in his first 82 outings at AFL level, 25 majors in his next 13 matches provoked a stark shift in thought, and approaching his 100th match it remains to be seen whether Reid will line up inside the forward or defensive 50 this season.

21. Quinten Lynch 250 games - Finals Week One
With his unrelenting work rate, and imposing presence, Quinten Lynch's arrival at Collingwood last season added a unique dynamic to the Magpie side, providing a foil to Travis Cloke whilst ensuring the club boasted a capable relief ruckman. Playing 18 matches in 2013, a strong pre-season will see Lynch in contention edge closer towards his 250th game, although the achievement is contingent on the Magpies securing a ninth consecutive finals berth.

27. Tony Armstrong 50 games - Round 22 vs. GWS Giants
Having impressed with his application on the training track throughout the off-season, Tony Armstrong will be looking to edge closer to his 50th AFL appearance in 2014. Having established himself across half back whilst with Adelaide and Sydney, Armstrong's incisive kicking ability and pace will make him a key contender to assume a berth in the Magpies back six.

28. Ben Sinclair 50 games - Round 12 vs. Melbourne
Ben Sinclair's inexorable march towards his 50th game is as much a testament to his versatility as his accelerated development over the last 12 months. Entering the 2013 season as a small forward, Sinclair's unceasing pressure and willingness to assume a role, no matter how unorthodox, allowed him to carve a unique niche within the Magpies side, one he will hope to reinforce this year.

32. Travis Cloke 200 games - Round 4 vs. Richmond
Having only missed six games over the past six seasons, Travis Cloke's durability has almost proved as remarkable as his rise to the status of arguably the premier power forward in the AFL. After a season where Cloke narrowly missed out on claiming the Coleman Medal, the Magpie marksman will surely again be in contention for the honour during a 2014 season that should see him feature in his 200th AFL game against Richmond, an opponent whom he tormented last year with a career best seven goals.

40. Paul Seedsman 50 games - Round 23 vs. Hawthorn
Should Paul Seedsman maintain the trajectory which saw him emerge as one of Collingwood's most exciting young talents last season, the lifelong Magpie may find himself rewarded with his 50th senior game in 2014. Having been fielded across half-back and on the wing, Seedsman's punishing right boot has evolved into a considerable weapon, which senior coach Nathan Buckley will look to harness again to even greater effect this season.