Collingwood Team Of The Century

Collingwood's Team of the Century: A Legacy Forged in Steel

Choosing a Collingwood Team of the Century is no easy feat. For over 130 years, the Magpies have captivated audiences, producing legendary players and unforgettable moments etched into AFL folklore. This article delves into the selection process, highlighting the incredible talent that has graced the black and white stripes, ultimately presenting a balanced and arguably definitive Collingwood Team of the Century. We'll explore the criteria used, examine some of the toughest selection dilemmas, and celebrate the enduring legacy of this iconic club.

The Criteria: Balancing Eras and Positions

Selecting a team across a century of football requires a nuanced approach. Simply choosing the most famous names wouldn't be fair to players from different eras who faced varying challenges and levels of competition. Our selection process considered several key factors:

• Premiership Success: While individual brilliance is crucial, premiership medals heavily influence a player's ranking. Players who contributed significantly to Collingwood’s 16 premierships hold a considerable advantage.

• Individual Accolades: Brownlow Medals, All-Australian selections, and leading goalkickers awards all demonstrate consistent elite performance.

• Impact and Influence: A player's overall impact on the game, both within Collingwood and the wider AFL, also played a crucial role. This includes their leadership qualities and contribution to the team's culture.

• Adaptability to Different Eras: Consideration was given to how well a player would adapt to modern football. While some legendary players may have excelled in their time, their style may not translate seamlessly to today's game.

• Positional Balance: Creating a well-rounded team with strong balance across all positions is paramount. While some positions may be fiercely contested, ensuring a strong and versatile team structure was a priority.

The Forwards: A Lethal Attacking Force

The forward line is arguably Collingwood's most potent weapon throughout its history. Choosing just six from the plethora of talent was excruciating, but this selection represents a potent blend of power, skill, and goal-scoring prowess:

• Full Forward: Gordon Coventry (1925-1941). The undisputed king. Coventry's 1299 goals in 236 games remains an almost unbreakable record. His strength, accuracy, and dominance in the air defined an era. No other full-forward can claim this level of sustained excellence.

• Leading Forward: Peter McKenna (1965-1978). A prodigious talent, McKenna's 730 goals across 257 games is testimony to his sustained excellence. His high-marking prowess and ability to convert under pressure made him a nightmare for defenders.

• Pocket Forward: Tony Lockett (1983-1995). "Plugger" needs no introduction. While his later career success came at St Kilda, his early years at Collingwood were phenomenal, showcasing his incredible accuracy and uncanny ability to find the goals.

• Half Forward Flank: Nathan Buckley (1993-2011). While known for his midfield brilliance, Buckley's ability to push forward and contribute to the scoreboard makes him a valuable asset in the forward line. His leadership and on-field impact are undeniable.

• Half Forward Flank: Sav Rocca (2001-2006). His kicking power and ability to take spectacular marks in the forward line were undeniable assets to the team during this time.

• Centre Half Forward: Leigh Matthews (1969-1985). A dominant force in the forward line, Matthews was also a fine midfielder and a natural leader. His impact on the game both in this position and in the midfield was too significant to ignore.

The Midfield: Power, Skill, and Stamina

Collingwood's midfield has always been a hallmark of its success. This selection embodies strength, speed, and ball-winning ability:

• Centre: Dick Reynolds (1930-1941). A legend who captained Collingwood to four premierships, Reynolds’ influence extends beyond his playing days. He was renowned for his courage and leadership.

• Wing: Scott Pendlebury (2007-Present). One of the greatest midfielders of the modern era, Pendlebury's precision kicking, elite disposal, and leadership make him a certain inclusion. His longevity and consistent excellence are exceptional.

• Wing: Syd Coventry (1922-1932). Brother of Gordon, Syd was a classy and skilled wingman with exceptional endurance. His ability to run all day and deliver the ball into attack made him vital to Collingwood's success.

• Half Back Flank: Des Tuddenham (1956-1969). A courageous player with unwavering loyalty to the club, his determination and leadership qualities resonated throughout the team.

The Backline: Defensive Strength and Resilience

Collingwood's defence, while often overshadowed by its attacking prowess, has consistently featured formidable players:

• Full Back: Harry Beitzel (1908-1921). A cornerstone of Collingwood's early success, Beitzel was renowned for his strength and reliability in defence. His contribution to the club's early dominance is undeniable.

• Back Pocket: Francis Bourke (1954-1967). A tenacious and reliable defender, Bourke provided exceptional support to the backline. His consistent performance and unwavering commitment earned him his place.

• Back Pocket: Herbie Matthews (1928-1945). The younger Matthews brother was noted for his ability to read the play and create opportunities for the forward line.

• Half Back Flank: Gavin Brown (1971-1985). Known for his competitiveness and ability to spoil the opposition, Brown's impact on Collingwood's backline was significant.

The Ruck: Dominating the Contested Ball

The ruck position is pivotal in modern football. Collingwood has been fortunate to boast some giants in this crucial role:

• Ruckman: Dane Swan (2002-2015). While known primarily as a midfielder, Swan's competitiveness and ability to win contested ball also made him an effective ruck option. His Brownlow Medal win and impact on the club's premiership contention solidifies his place.

Coach: Jock McHale (1925-1958)

No discussion of a Collingwood Team of the Century is complete without mentioning legendary coach Jock McHale. His 24-year reign saw Collingwood capture seven premierships, establishing a dynasty that cemented the club's place in AFL history. His tactical brilliance and understanding of the game made him an unforgettable figure in Collingwood’s history.

The Bench: Honourable Mentions and Unsung Heroes

Selecting a team of this magnitude inevitably involves difficult decisions. Several players deserve recognition for their significant contributions:

• Michael Voss: A hard-running midfielder who played a vital role in several premiership campaigns.
• Paul Licuria: A tough and uncompromising defender who played with immense heart and determination.
• Jarrad McVeigh: A highly skillful and intelligent midfielder whose impact on the game transcended his role at Collingwood.

These players, and many others who missed the cut, represent the rich history and talent that makes Collingwood such a celebrated and enduring AFL club.

Conclusion: A Team For the Ages

This Collingwood Team of the Century isn't simply a list of names; it's a testament to the enduring spirit and exceptional talent that has defined this iconic club. It’s a blend of legendary figures whose individual brilliance contributed to an unparalleled legacy. The selections reflect a balance of eras, positions, and the unique challenges faced by players across a century of football. While debate will always surround such selections, this team stands as a powerful representation of Collingwood's rich history and unwavering commitment to excellence. The black and white faithful will always remember these men as the epitome of what it means to be a Collingwood player – resilience, determination, and an unwavering passion for the game.