Steele Sidebottom Sets Historic Benchmark in 2025 With Record-Breaking Performance, Clinches His Second Coach’s MVP Award in Style as First Collingwood Player to Register 35+ Disposals, 20+ Contested Possessions, 15+ Clearances, and 5+ Inside 50s in a Single Match
In a performance that will go down in Collingwood folklore, veteran midfielder Steele Sidebottom has delivered a masterclass for the ages, claiming his second Coach’s MVP award of the 2025 season—and doing it in historic style.
The 32-year-old shattered statistical ceilings in a commanding display that powered the Magpies to a hard-fought win. Sidebottom became the first Collingwood player in club history to record 35 or more disposals, 20 or more contested possessions, 15 or more clearances, and 5 or more inside 50s in a single game, setting a new benchmark for midfield brilliance.
From the first bounce, Sidebottom looked locked in. His ability to win the ball in tight, shrug tackles, and explode into space was vintage Sidebottom—equal parts poise and grit. He was everywhere: at stoppages, linking up through traffic, delivering inside 50s with surgical precision, and setting the tone for his teammates with relentless pressure.
The numbers tell one story, but the eye test told another. Every possession seemed to carry weight. Every clearance was hard-earned. In a match where momentum swung like a pendulum, Sidebottom was the anchor—his decision-making under pressure a calming influence in the chaos.
“Steele’s performance was one of the most complete midfield games I’ve seen,” said Collingwood head coach Craig McRae post-match. “He led from the front, played unselfishly, and lifted when it mattered most. That’s why he’s such a respected figure around the club.”
The Coach’s MVP nod—the second for Sidebottom in 2025—only adds to his remarkable legacy in the black and white. Already a premiership hero and club stalwart, he’s showing no signs of slowing down, continuing to evolve in a midfield stacked with emerging talent.
More than just numbers, Sidebottom’s performance reminded fans why footy is as much about leadership and willpower as it is about stats. It wasn’t just a game—it was a statement.
With finals looming and the Magpies pushing for a top-four finish, Steele Sidebottom’s unforgettable outing may prove to be the spark that ignites another deep September run.
