Amidst all the noise and controversy, Scott Pendlebury's record-breaking appearance will have a heartwarming touch at its centre. The momentous occasion is supposed to be a celebration, but a large portion of the AFL community isn't in a rush to break out the confetti. Much of the backlash has surrounded commemorative merchandise tied to the match, including special guernseys, boots, wine and watches, with Pendlebury set to receive proceeds from the sale.
Pendlebury's boots, however, are to be adorned by designs made by his kids. One has been designed by his son Jax, while the other features drawings and writing by his daughter Darcy. The primary colour of the boots is white and features gold accents as well as a gold sole plate. Scott Pendlebury will wear special boots featuring designs from his kids Jax and Darcy for his record-breaking appearance. Jax and Darcy designed a boot each and sent them to Puma before they turned their imagination into reality for Pendlebury to wear on Saturday. Scott Pendlebury will wear a gold 10 guernsey as he marks his record-making 433rd appearance.
They feature his kids' names as well as the words 'Go Pies', 'SP 433', 'Good Luck', and 'Lets go!' Even the biggest cynic would struggle to pick holes in such a wholesome decision by the pending record-holder. And the touching decision holds even more weight when considering the importance that Pendlebury has put on his family throughout his career.
Speaking on 7News alongside his wife Alex, Pendlebury joked about his kids almost being of the age of some of his teammates than he is. 'My son Jax for example and Nick Daicos are closer in age by a fair bit than me and Nick are.' When asked if he could go on for another season, Alex responded, 'I know the kids would be happy because they could keep coming into the club and seeing their friends.' When asked about what would mark the 450th appearance should he reach it, Scott revealed he may wear a pink 10 as his daughter Darcy had asked of him for his next appearance.
Pendlebury copped one from his wife about his bedmaking, as she said, 'He's got one bad habit if he makes the bed he will just make his side that's an odd habit.' 'I think we met when were 19 so I've been to most of the games.' Since he was drafted with the No.5 pick in 2005, Pendlebury has been a warrior for the Magpies, notching up 432 games across 22 seasons. He is currently locked on the most AFL matches with North Melbourne great Brent 'Boomer' Harvey and will overtake him against the Eagles on Saturday.
