The popular veteran departed the Panthers midway through the 2016 season to pursue a career with the CFA, but went on to play 14 games for Rennie last year and featured among the best players in the club’s Picola and District South East league premiership victory over Tungamah.

Pendergast, who requires nine games to get to 300 in the premier Border competition, after a glittering career which includes 235 appearances for Lavington, as well as several matches for Wodonga Raiders and the Ovens and Murray, still believes he has plenty to offer at senior level.

“I thought footy was probably past me with work being the number one priority in my life, but things have lined up and the body feels good,” Pendergast said.

“Obviously the milestone is a big draw card, but just to play at that top level for one more year, you’re a long time retired.

“I’ve always missed Lavi, it’s a place where I’ve always been and the stars have lined up and I’m back there which I’m really excited about.

“I’ve got a good relationship with the older guys as well as (former coach) James Saker and a few of the newer guys as well.

“You form good friendships and you do miss that, but I think they’re pretty excited to have me back and hopefully I can have an impact on the field as well.”

With work still the priority, Pendergast said he will likely look to play half the season plus finals if Lavington makes the top-five.

“I love competing and winning, but as you get a bit older it just takes a little more effort and you’ve got to be a bit more cunning obviously to get your body right,” he said.

“To be honest, I thought I’d play out at Rennie and that would be it, but obviously I’ve still got family involved with the club and love supporting it.

“I think another 12 months will probably pull me up, but you never know, age is only a number.

“I’ll give it my all this year and see how I go, but I’m not looking past this season too much.”