Did you know Adam Goodes signed up as an umpire to stay fit in the lead up to the 1997 National Draft?
Or that Rhyce Shaw famously appeared, cradling the 2012 Premiership Cup, on the baggage carousel at Sydney Airport during the jubilant post-match celebrations?
They were just some of the stories shared at Thursday’s Legends Breakfast where hundreds of supporters helped celebrate the remarkable careers of Goodes, Shaw and Mike Pyke.
SWANSONGS: Goodes and Pyke to complete lap of honour at Sydney Derby IX
You could have heard a pin drop in the SCG’s Steve Waugh Room as guests hung onto every word spoken by the 2015 retirees throughout the morning.
After some kind words from coach John Longmire, who coached the trio for a combined 278 games, the men of the moment were presented on stage one-by-one where they told stories and reminisced about their playing days.
Pyke was joined on stage by former teammate and good friend Henry Playfair, who talked about the Canadian’s remarkable journey from international rugby player to accomplished AFL footballer.
It was a bumpy start for the convert, but one that Pyke pushed through to become one of the most resilient and hardest working footballers the likes of Longmire and Playfair had ever known.
“The Swans are incredibly good in welcoming people,” Pyke said. “My teammates, the coaches and supporters welcomed me with open arms.”
Shaw, alongside brother Heath, then graced the stage to talk about the transition from Collingwood to Sydney and the feeling of winning the 2012 Premiership.
“I appreciated my time at Collingwood,” Shaw said. “But the decision to move to Sydney was an easy one. It gave me a fresh start.”
Accompanied by Michael O’Loughlin, the time came for Goodes to make his way to the stage.
There was plenty to talk about after 372 games, two premierships and two Brownlow Medals, along with Saturday’s impending farewell with a lap of honour at the SCG.
BLOCKBUSTER: Longmire eager for Sydney Derby IX
“I’m really excited about coming back here (SCG) and looking those people in the eye,” Goodes said.
“Those people who I’ve known for a long time supporting me and cheering for me, and writing messages on Facebook and liking comments on Twitter. They’ve shown love and support and I’m forever grateful for that.
“This will be my chance to say thank you to those supporters and people in the media, including those who don’t support AFL and have helped me as well.”
The breakfast concluded with a standing ovation for Goodes, Shaw and Pyke, in a heartfelt gesture of support and gratitude.
Both Goodes and Pyke will reunite again for a lap of honour at half-time of Saturday’s Sydney Derby IX.
