Matthews coached the Magpies in 224 games over 10 seasons from 1986 to 1995, including the unforgettable 48-point triumph over the Bombers in early October of 1990, which ended the Magpies’ 32-year premiership drought.
His coaching feats at Collingwood formed part of what has been an amazing career in football. Before coming to Collingwood, Matthews forged a 332-game playing career with Hawthorn in which he played in three premierships, won eight best-and-fairest awards and was named the player of the 20th century.
After leaving the Magpies, Matthews went to Brisbane where he coached the Lions to three successive flags form 2001 to 2003.
He accepted his life membership in front of 600 Collingwood members in the Olympic Room at the MCG, and spoke glowingly of his time at the club.
Matthews was joined as a life member by long-serving board member and current club vice president Alex Waislitz. One of the country’s renowned investment and business minds, Waislitz has served Collingwood with distinction as a director for the past 10 years as one of president Eddie McGuire’s key board members.
Waislitz has also become one of Australia’s leading figures in philanthropy.
After being honoured with a 50-year reunion dinner earlier this year, the remaining members of the famous 1958 Collingwood premiership team who had not previously had the honour bestowed upon them were officially presented with life membership.
The club also acknowledged archive committee chairman Peter Furniss and long time club supporter Sandra Andrae with special services awards.
