COLLINGWOOD STARS LAUNCH THE OFFICIAL COLLINGWOOD ILLUSTRATED ENCYCLOPEDIA

Dale Thomas and Steele Sidebottom yesterday launched The Official Collingwood Illustrated Encyclopedia at Angus & Robertson, Bourke Street. Thomas and Sidebottom, two of Collingwood's most popular young players, went head-to-head in a handball competition before signing copies of the book, and fans were also treated to a Collingwood-themed balloon and photo with the players.

The Official Collingwood Illustrated Encyclopedia, written by Michael Roberts and Glenn McFarlane with a foreword by Eddie McGuire, celebrates the rich history of this great club – players, coaches, premierships won and lost, fans, memorable moments and more, all captured in stunning photos. Profiles of the Magpie heroes and legends are also featured, with a decade-by-decade analysis of the club since its first official match in 1892 and a look at the football families who have black-and-white running through their veins.

This updated edition also includes profiles of new inductees in the club’s Hall of Fame and headline-grabbers from the previous five years. In club president Eddie McGuire’s words, “The Official Collingwood Illustrated Encyclopedia is all about the culture that makes this great club. It has gathered all the reasons why we exist: a champion club, created by champion supporters, creating champion teams, made up of champion players. We have a great story to tell, and this book tells that story brilliantly.”

Thanks to Angus & Robertson, Bourke Street for assisting with the successful launch. The Official Collingwood Illustrated Encyclopedia is available now – click here for further information.