The story of Scott Pendlebury, a Sale-born sporting legend, is a fascinating tale of what-could-have-been and the power of individual choice. It's a narrative that almost rewrote the history of the AFL, and it all began with a phone call in an underground car park.
Imagine, for a moment, if Pendlebury had stayed on his chosen path of basketball. Well, that was a very real possibility until a pivotal moment in late 2004. His decision to switch sports, influenced by the allure of kicking a Sherrin with friends, set him on a path to become one of the AFL's most durable and celebrated athletes.
The Sliding Doors Moment
The call that changed everything came from Scott himself, expressing his desire to leave basketball for footy. His parents, Liza and Bruce, immediately sprang into action, meeting him in Canberra to discuss this life-altering decision. And the rest, as they say, is history.
What makes this particularly fascinating is the butterfly effect it created. Pendlebury's departure from the AIS basketball program opened the door for Patty Mills, who went on to achieve incredible success in the NBA and at the Olympics. It's a reminder of how interconnected our sporting world is, and how one decision can have a ripple effect on so many others.
A Leader's Journey
Pendlebury's talent was evident from a young age. He played for the Sale Sonics and represented Victoria and Australia in basketball. But it was his transition to AFL that truly showcased his leadership qualities. His junior basketball coach, Jo Crawford-Wynd, witnessed his transformation firsthand.
"He was a locker-room leader, but he didn't always use his influence for good." - Jo Crawford-Wynd
However, Pendlebury's growth as a leader was remarkable. Crawford-Wynd attended every milestone match of his career, witnessing his evolution into a true leader on and off the field. This transformation is a testament to the power of mentorship and the impact a supportive community can have on an individual's growth.
The Draft Surprise
Pendlebury's selection by Collingwood with the fifth pick in the 2004 AFL draft was a surprise, not because of his talent, but because of the circumstances. In those days, rural areas often had patchy dial-up internet, and the Pendleburys' internet crashed just as Scott's name was being called out. It was a heart-stopping moment, followed by a call from Eddie McGuire, the Collingwood president, claiming Pendlebury for the club.
"Eddie said, 'Thank you for raising him, but now he's mine.'" - Liza Pendlebury
This moment, captured by Liza's quote, is a beautiful illustration of the emotional investment parents have in their children's journeys. It's a reminder that behind every sporting success story, there's a supportive family cheering them on.
A Legacy in the Making
Pendlebury's career in black and white has been nothing short of exceptional. He's collected two premierships, a Norm Smith Medal, and numerous other accolades. Talking to his father, Bruce, from an oil rig in Bass Strait, you can hear the pride and emotion in his voice.
"I'm over the moon. I get a bit emotional talking about it..." - Bruce Pendlebury
Bruce's words highlight the sacrifices parents make to support their children's dreams. It's a universal experience, and it's heartwarming to see the Pendlebury family's journey recognized and celebrated.
The Future Uncertain
As Pendlebury prepares for his milestone 433rd game, surpassing North Melbourne's Brent Harvey as the outright VFL/AFL games record holder, the question on everyone's mind is: what's next? Pendlebury himself is keeping his options open, refusing to confirm if this will be his last season at the top level. His age is just a number, and his determination and preparation remain unwavering.
There's talk of honoring Pendlebury's legacy, with suggestions of renaming the local football oval or erecting a bronze statue. But before any of that, there's a game to play, and a record to break. Pendlebury's journey is a testament to the power of individual choice, hard work, and the support of a loving family. It's a story that inspires and reminds us all of the potential that lies within each of us.
