From prison to premiership: Marlion Pickett’s ‘fairytale’ AFL comeback | Australian Story

When Marlion Pickett took to the field in the AFL grand final late last year, it set the scene for one of the most heartwarming moments in the sport’s history.

For 28-year-old Pickett it was the culmination of a journey that began more than seven years ago when he was in prison.

Pickett credits partner Jessica Nannup and his four children for creating the incentive to turn his life around and follow his passion for footy.

But the journey wasn't easy and Pickett was overlooked in successive AFL drafts. It wasn't until Richmond coach Damien Hardwick took a punt on him that his fortunes turned around.

Now, as he gears up for the new season, all eyes are on what he will achieve next, both on and off the field.

Read more: https://www.abc.net.au/news/2020-03-02/how-marlion-pickett-became-an-unlikely-richmond-tigers-leader/11954784
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About Australian Story: Putting the "real" back into reality television, Australian Story is an award-winning documentary series with no narrator and no agendas — just authentic stories told entirely in people's own words. Take 30 minutes to immerse yourself in the life of an extraordinary Australian. They're sometimes high profile, sometimes controversial, but always compelling. It’s television guaranteed to make you think and feel. New episodes are available every Monday.