Players are remembered for their performances in big games and though Andrew Embley had a long and prosperous career at West Coast, one match of his 250-game career stands above the rest. His 26 possessions, 12 marks and two goals in the 2006 Grand Final saw him awarded the Norm Smith Medal for best afield, as the Eagles triumphed by a solitary point over the Swans.
His elite running ability coupled with his height (190cm midfielders were much less common when Embley began his career) made him an incredibly difficult player to match up on, and one of the Eagles’ most damaging weapons. He proved to be the difference on Grand Final day.
Seven years on, Embley is hanging up the boots.
The Eagles have been blessed with midfield talent in the past decade; amongst Judd, Cousins and Kerr, Embley often flew under the radar. Having said that, those who followed West Coast closely understood how important Embley was.
Aside from providing the midfield with another dimension, he was also the Eagles’ vice-captain from 2004 to 2006; a period in which his club might have won back-to-back premierships, were it not for a famous Leo Barry mark at the death.
Five years on from that moment, Embley was still one of the Eagles’ best players when September rolled around. He kicked four goals in West Coast’s win against North Melbourne in last year’s elimination final.
Impressive though the performance was; it wasn’t altogether surprising. Embley averaged 18 possessions per game throughout his career, but averaged almost 22 disposals per final. It’s an outstanding record, considering he played 15 matches in September.
While his on-field achievements speak for themselves, Embley has also maintained a healthy work-life balance throughout his career and has explored a number of career avenues in preparation for life after football.
His restaurant Beluga, which he owns with teammate Dean Cox, has been a great success and has allowed him to try his hand as an apprentice chef. He has also worked with Perth Media, as a broadcaster across both radio and TV, and was strongly involved with the launch of the Cancer Council’s ‘Australia’s Biggest Morning Tea’ in Western Australia.
He’s a much-loved clubman, who will be greatly missed at West Coast, though it must be said, not for his fashion exploits. He’s widely recognised as the worst-dressed player at the Eagles.
Fellow midfielder Andrew Gaff says, “Embley’s produced some shocking kits,” while ruckman Nic Naitanui explains, “he’ll wear the jeans with runners, and a pink shirt with holes in it.”
“He matches fluoros with khakis, with blacks,” Will Schofield adds.
“He’s got absolutely no idea.”
Embley is one of eight nominees in line for this year’s AFL Players’ Madden Medal. The award is given to a retiring great each season, recognising the player’s contributions to the game both on and off the field. The winner will be announced at a ceremony at the Sofitel on Friday 4th October.