AFL CEO-Elect Andrew Dillon today said the AFL offered its love and condolences to Leonie, Daniel and James Rendell, after the loss of their husband and father Matthew this afternoon.

Rendell passed away earlier today, having suffered a cardiac arrest on Sunday. He had been involved in the top level of the game since his debut as a teenager for West Torrens in 1977, playing in the VFL/AFL with Fitzroy (1981-91) and the Brisbane Bears (1992) after leaving the SANFL. He then worked in club administration and recruiting, while also forging a media career in recent years.

“Matt Rendell was a top-flight footballer from the moment of his debut for the Eagles, regular state representative for SA and imposing ruckman with Fitzroy and the Bears. As a dual All Australian and dual best and fairest winner, he led with distinction and forged friendships across the game with his gregarious nature, both as a player and then later in his career working in the game," Dillon said. 

“He will be greatly missed by so many across the industry and we offer our sincere condolences to Leonie, Daniel and James, and his many friends and colleagues around the game.”