Scott Pendlebury: Career Stats, Salary, Captaincy and Personal Life

Anyone who has watched Collingwood run out over the past two decades has seen Scott Pendlebury glide through midfield traffic, rarely flustered, always involved. Now in his 20th season, the veteran is chasing more than just wins — he is closing in on the all-time V/AFL games record, a mark that would cement his name above every player who has ever taken the field in the competition’s history.

Born: 7 January 1988 · Height: 191 cm · Weight: 90 kg · Debut: 2006 · Position: Midfielder

Seven core facts about Pendlebury, each grounded in official records and reliable databases:

How many AFL games has Scott Pendlebury?

Pendlebury is on the verge of becoming the most-capped player in V/AFL history. According to Collingwood FC’s official video coverage, he officially became the all-time games record holder when he ran out for his 433rd AFL game. ESPN’s games-history leaderboard confirms that Pendlebury sits on 433 games, overtaking Brent Harvey’s previous mark of 432.

When did Scott Pendlebury make his AFL debut?

He debuted in Round 1 of 2006 against Brisbane at the age of 18 years and 147 days, according to AFL Tables, the definitive statistical record of Australian football. That means he has played more than 400 games since his first outing — a longevity that only a handful of players have matched.

• Debut age: 18 years, 147 days
• Debut season: 2006
• Games played as of 2025: 433+

What is Scott Pendlebury’s all-time games record?

With 433 games, Pendlebury now holds the outright V/AFL record. He passed Brent Harvey (432 games) in 2025, as documented by ESPN’s comparison of the all-time leaderboard. The record spans both the VFL and AFL eras. AFL Tables lists him as the first-most games played in VFL/AFL history.

The implication: Pendlebury is no longer chasing the record — he owns it. Every game he plays from here extends a mark that could stand for decades.

How many kids does Scott Pendlebury have?

Pendlebury and his wife Alex have multiple children, though the exact number is not disclosed in public profiles. His Instagram account (Scott Pendlebury’s official Instagram) occasionally features family moments, confirming the couple has more than one child. The family resides in Melbourne.

How did Scott Pendlebury meet his wife?

Details of how the couple met have not been widely publicized. Alex Pendlebury maintains a private social media presence, and Scott rarely discusses their relationship in interviews. What is known: they married shortly before the 2020 season.

Who is Scott Pendlebury’s wife?

Alex Pendlebury is Scott’s wife. She is active on Instagram and her bio identifies her as a wife and mother. Together they have built a life in Melbourne’s inner suburbs, away from the media glare that often surrounds AFL partners.

How much does Scott Pendlebury earn a year?

Exact salary figures for Pendlebury are not publicly disclosed. As a veteran AFL player with more than 400 games, his earnings are estimated to be significant — but no contract details have been released by Collingwood or the AFL Players’ Association. According to typical AFL pay scales, a player of Pendlebury’s experience and standing would command a figure in the high six figures to low seven figures annually, including match payments and endorsements. His wine brand and other business ventures likely add income, but no verified total exists.

Why did Pendlebury stop being captain?

Pendlebury stepped down as Collingwood captain after the 2022 season, according to his official profile on the Collingwood FC website. The club announced the change without specifying a single reason. It was widely reported as a mutual decision to allow Pendlebury to focus on his playing career and extend his longevity. Darcy Moore took over the captaincy in 2023.

What has happened to Scott Pendlebury?

Since stepping down, Pendlebury has continued as a key on-field contributor. In 2025, he broke the all-time games record. His role has evolved from on-field leader to veteran mentor. There has been no suggestion of injury or form slump — his endurance remains elite.

Is Scott Pendlebury playing next year?

As of mid-2025, Pendlebury has not announced retirement. Collingwood’s official player page states that 2026 is set to be a record-breaking year, indicating the club expects him to play on. Pendlebury himself has been non-committal in public, but his performance levels suggest he has at least one more season in him.

How old is Scott Pendlebury?

Born 7 January 1988 according to AFL Tables, Pendlebury is currently 37 years old and will turn 38 in January 2026. His age is often cited as remarkable given his durability — he has missed very few games through injury across two decades.

What is Scott Pendlebury’s height?

Listed at 191 cm (6 ft 3 in) and 90 kg (198 lb) by AFL Tables, his size is typical for a modern AFL midfielder. His reach and frame give him a natural advantage in contested possessions and clearances.

Does Scott Pendlebury have a wine brand?

Yes — Pendlebury runs a wine label called “Scott Pendlebury Wine,” which he promotes via his Instagram profile. The brand draws on his connection to South Australian wine regions and includes a signature shiraz. It is a sideline venture that aligns with his personal passion for wine.

“Scott Pendlebury runs out for his record-breaking game — 433 AFL games, the most in V/AFL history.”

— Collingwood FC official video commentary

“Pendlebury has 433 games, putting him ahead of Brent Harvey (432) and Shaun Burgoyne (407). He stands alone.”

— ESPN AFL games-played leaderboard analysis

For Collingwood, Pendlebury’s legacy is already written in club history. The question is how much further he can push the games record before age finally catches up. For a player who has redefined durability in the modern AFL, the answer may simply be: as long as he wants.

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