McRae’s Masterstroke: Houston’s Green Light and Pendlebury’s Legacy Plan At… see… more 

Collingwood head coach Craig McRae has laid out a bold vision for the 2025 AFL season, expressing excitement about star recruit Dan Houston while mapping out a significant role for veteran Scott Pendlebury. As the Magpies seek redemption after a tough start to their campaign, McRae’s strategic plan blends fresh talent with seasoned leadership to keep Collingwood at the top.

Dan Houston: The Game-Changer Gets a License to Attack

McRae has made it clear that Houston, recruited from Port Adelaide, will have the freedom to play aggressively and take risks. The 26-year-old defender missed Round 1 due to suspension but is set to debut against his former club, with McRae eager to see him showcase his natural flair.

“Dan is like no one else,” McRae said. “We want him to be himself, take the game on, and show the AFL world just how good he is. If he makes a mistake, so be it—he’s been given the green light to take risks.”

Houston’s arrival is timely, given Collingwood’s struggles in their opening-round clash with GWS, where they managed just two points from turnovers and suffered a demoralizing 52-point defeat. The former Port Adelaide star’s elite kicking and defensive versatility are expected to rejuvenate the Magpies’ ball movement and provide much-needed stability in the backline.

“We lacked a bit of daring last week, and Dan is someone who naturally plays that way,” McRae added. “We want to see him back himself in and open up the game.”

Pendlebury: The On-Field Coach and Mentor

While Houston represents Collingwood’s future, Scott Pendlebury remains the club’s heartbeat. The 36-year-old legend, who stepped down as captain in 2022, is embracing his role as a mentor, particularly for young stars like Nick Daicos.

McRae believes Pendlebury’s leadership is more valuable than ever.

“Pendles’ influence hasn’t dropped off at all since stepping away from the captaincy,” McRae explained. “If anything, it’s grown. He’s mentoring the younger guys, leading by example, and still producing elite football.”

Pendlebury’s guidance has been crucial for the rapid development of Daicos, who has been shadowing the veteran to learn the intricacies of elite AFL midfield play.

“Nick follows Pendles everywhere,” McRae revealed. “They sit together in meetings, talk about tactics, and you can see the impact Scott is having on his growth. It’s like having another coach on the field.”

Collingwood’s Strategy: Experience Meets Youth

Collingwood’s approach for 2025 isn’t just about new faces like Houston or established stars like Pendlebury—it’s about balance. The club has ensured continuity by re-signing four veteran players: Pendlebury, Steele Sidebottom, Jeremy Howe, and Will Hoskin-Elliott, all of whom will be key figures in guiding the next generation of Magpies.

With nine players over the age of 30 still on the list, McRae has made it clear that experience will be a cornerstone of their success.

“People talk about age, but what I see is professionalism, leadership, and consistency,” McRae said. “We’ve got the perfect blend of youth and experience, and we’re backing it in.”

The Road Ahead: Can McRae’s Plan Deliver?

With Houston set to bring an aggressive edge and Pendlebury continuing to shape the club’s future, Collingwood fans have plenty to look forward to. McRae’s strategy—allowing Houston to play with freedom while ensuring Pendlebury’s legacy continues—could prove to be a game-changer in the Magpies’ quest for another premiership.

The upcoming clash against Port Adelaide will be a true test of McRae’s vision. Will Houston’s bold playstyle spark the Magpies into form? Can Pendlebury’s mentorship elevate the next wave of Collingwood stars?

One thing is certain—under McRae, the Magpies are building for both the present and the future.