Former Fitzroy champion and highly regarded AFL recruiter, Matthew Rendell, passed away at the age of 64 after suffering a heart attack on Sunday. Rendell had been on life support at the Victorian Heart Hospital in Clayton since his arrival via ambulance after collapsing while walking his dog.
Rendell’s football career was exceptional, starting as a teenager for West Torrens in the SANFL in 1977. He then played 164 games in the VFL/AFL with Fitzroy and spent a season with the Brisbane Bears. During his time at Fitzroy, he received two best and fairest honors, was a two-time All-Australian, and served as the club’s captain from 1985-1987.
After retiring as a player, Rendell transitioned into club administration and recruiting. He worked as an assistant coach at St Kilda and gained admiration as a recruiter at Adelaide and Collingwood. In recent years, Rendell had ventured into a media career with The Age and SEN.
The AFL released a statement from Rendell’s wife, Leonie, expressing her sadness over his condition and eventual passing. The statement acknowledged the efforts of the first responders and the staff at the Victorian Heart Hospital and expressed gratitude for the support received by the Rendell family during this difficult time.
AFL CEO-elect Andrew Dillon praised Rendell’s achievements and contributions to the football community. He highlighted Rendell’s successful playing career, leadership abilities, and friendly nature, which made him well-liked among players and colleagues.
Rendell’s brother, Tim, revealed that Matthew was found by a passer-by after experiencing a cardiac arrest. He described his brother as a physically fit individual who regularly engaged in physical activities like walking.
Matthew Rendell is survived by his brothers, Tim and Stephen, his sisters Deb, Melinda, and Vanessa, his wife Leonie, and his sons Daniel and James. The football community mourns the loss of a talented and respected individual.
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Hasibur Rahaman is a passionate sports journalist. He covers everything from cricket to field hockey, delivering up-to-the-minute updates and in-depth analysis of sporting events, both within India and on the international stage.
