In the world of Australian rules football, few players have had as profound an impact as Jordan De Goey. His journey to the top has been a rollercoaster, filled with both triumph and adversity. But at the heart of it all, there's one constant: Scott Pendlebury, a mentor and a friend who has been there for De Goey through thick and thin. This is the story of how Pendlebury's unwavering support might have saved De Goey's career, and the impact it has had on both men.
De Goey's early days in the AFL were not without their challenges. He faced off-field issues and sombre meetings with the club, including with Pendlebury, who was the long-time skipper. But Pendlebury was always there for him, offering support and guidance. "He’s just a special person in general, he’ll always have your back," De Goey said. "From the start of my career, all the way up until now, he’s been a mentor for me, someone who’s supported me and cared for me the whole journey."
Pendlebury's influence on De Goey goes beyond the field. De Goey has formed a bond with Pendlebury's son, Jax, who regularly wears a No. 2 on his jumper as his favorite player. This connection has helped shape De Goey, who became a father himself last December after he and his partner, Aisha, welcomed their first baby girl, Tatum. "It’s all helped shape De Goey," we can say.
The Magpies celebrated Pendlebury's milestone in style in a 10-point win over the Eagles that went down to the wire. Beyond the game itself, the tributes for the milestone man went far and wide. They included all Collingwood players — not just Pendlebury — wearing gold numbers on their commemorative guernseys. The idea was driven by Pendlebury in a late surprise his teammates, including De Goey, "had no idea" about. "It was pretty special. Felt like you were a part of it," De Goey added.
Pendlebury's support has been a constant throughout De Goey's 12 seasons in the AFL. Even in the rockiest times, Pendlebury was always in De Goey's corner. "He’s just a special person in general, he’ll always have your back," De Goey said. "From the start of my career, all the way up until now, he’s been a mentor for me, someone who’s supported me and cared for me the whole journey."
But how much longer can Pendlebury's longstanding, decorated career keep going? "You can’t kill the bloke, he’s like a cockroach, he just keeps going!," De Goey cheekily responded. "I dunno, he can probably play for another five years, to be honest!"
De Goey's own form has been on the rise recently, following two "super frustrating" seasons riddled by injury since winning the 2023 flag. He has averaged 28 disposals over his last three games and thrived in a permanent midfield role with his feet finally under him. "I think playing up the ground and around the ball a bit more has helped me out," he said. "I’ve just grown and got some confidence."
Pendlebury's impact on De Goey's career is undeniable. His unwavering support and mentorship have helped De Goey navigate the ups and downs of the AFL. As De Goey looks to the future, he can do so with the knowledge that Pendlebury will always be there for him. "I’m super grateful to have him in my life and I’m super stoked to get to share this milestone with him," De Goey said. "We had a few meetings, unfortunately, back in the day. But he was the first to support me and backed me to the hilt."
In the end, it's not just about the football. It's about the relationships and the support systems that make the game so special. And for Jordan De Goey, Scott Pendlebury is the ultimate example of what a mentor and a friend should be.
