AFL Cairns: From near-death to coaching triumph: Wayne Pavitt’s inspirational journey takes the helm of Cairns Saints reserves
In an incredible tale of resilience, Wayne Pavitt, a local footy star in both Cairns and Melbourne, has survived a horror crash to make a miracle return to a club he loves.
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In an incredible tale of resilience and passion for the game, Wayne Pavitt, a former local AFL footballer has defied the odds.
It was early March when a devastating car crash left Pavitt fighting for his life.
He was in hospital recovering for two months, then spent two months wheelchair bound.
The injuries were extensive, ranging from a double knee reconstruction, shattered pelvis, broken foot, cracked sternum and ribs to a collapsed lung. He lost toes on his right foot and this is all before the multiple surgeries kick started.
“I shouldn’t be walking,” he said.
“It was tough times, just sitting on your bed in so much pain, I have had about eight to ten surgeries with still more to come.
“I was in a wheelchair for a fair amount of time, then a walking frame, but I just don’t like people making a fuss over me, opening doors and getting out of my way.
“I really tried to speed up the recovery and get out of the wheelchair.”
Pavitt, 40, was more than a handy goalsneak prior to the accident, spending the majority of his career at Montmorency football club in Victoria.
He once kicked 21 goals in a game of football, before spending three years at Port Douglas Crocs between 2019 and 2021, winning two premierships before crossing over to Cairns Saints.
A diehard Brisbane Lions fan, he worshipped the early ’00s dynasty team with Leigh Matthews and Michael Voss at the helm.
Pavitt’s love for football never wavered. Even during his recovery, he found a way to be present at games, pushing through the pain to support his teammates.
He emphasises the welcoming atmosphere and the camaraderie among his Saints teammates.
Saints president Shane Liversidge said he was a loveable character who was always energetic.
“He’s always upbeat, very talented player and we’re all just happy to see him up and about, it’s a credit to him for the resilience and courage he has shown.” Liversidge said.
Pavitt’s Crocs premiership coach Brad Cooper said he had a great knowledge of footy.
“He’s a strong competitor, he’s very lucky to still be here, he’s faced some real tough challenges but he’s shown he’s overcome some great hurdles not just physically but mentally.” Cooper said.
Saints teammate and close friend Cade Wellington said he was a remarkable character.
“He’s an inspiration,” Wellington said.
“From where he was to now, his resilience is unbelievable and he’s had tough days but he never shows it.
“Day after the accident he was pretty busted up and he looked at me and said ‘Cade, I’m not going to be right for round one, but should be right by round three.’
“He’s just a ripper bloke.”
The Cairns Saints recognised his unwavering dedication and, in a heartwarming gesture, offered him an opportunity to stay connected to the sport as the coach for the development side.
“Wes (Glass) rang me up and asked me about (the role),” Pavitt said.
“(Wes) said ‘you’ve got plenty of experience in footy, you just do you, everyone’s excited for it, it’s all yours’.
“Once I said ‘yes’, I started to get really excited about it, I couldn’t wait to get started.
“Few boys weren’t going to go round again but once they heard I was in, (decided to stick around).
“It keeps me around footy and I’ve got a great bunch of blokes to coach.”
The journey from player to coach wasn’t initially in Pavitt’s plans. His love for the game had always revolved around being on the field, but after 23 years of senior footy, the accident forced him to rethink his role.
The offer to coach the reserves came at the right time, providing him with an avenue to stay involved and contribute his wealth of experience.
Saints’ commitment to nurturing young talent and providing opportunities resonated with Pavitt, simplifying the decision to join the coaching ranks.
As Pavitt prepares for his coaching debut, he acknowledged the support he has received from his fiancee, family, and close friends during his challenging recovery.
“They’ve been really powerful for me, they’re the rocks and I’d be lost without them all to be honest,” he said.
“I was a bit depressed not being able to play footy again, but I’m pumped for the year, boys have got around me and this has given me a boost, I can’t wait to get started.”
Their unwavering encouragement has fuelled his determination to overcome all the physical and emotional hurdles he has faced.
Pavitt’s inspiring journey, from a near-fatal car accident to the helm of the Cairns Saints’ reserves, serves as a testament to the resilience of his spirit. His story is not just about overcoming adversity but also about finding new avenues to follow passion after adversity. Cairns Saints are not just gaining a coach, they are gaining a man with a remarkable story to tell.
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Originally published as AFL Cairns: From near-death to coaching triumph: Wayne Pavitt’s inspirational journey takes the helm of Cairns Saints reserves
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