Sturt Football Club mourns the passing of past player Phil Sanders, (#775), who died earlier this week following a long illness aged 72 years.
Playing 82 Reserves games and at 21 years of age Phil made his league debut for in 1975 coming off the bench in a Datsun Cup match against North Adelaide.
Phil’s place in Sturt’s 1976 premiership side came through circumstance as much as preparation, with injuries to key players Malcolm Greenslade, Noel Pettingill, Bruce Winter and Ken Whelan creating opportunity. Tasked with negating Port Adelaide’s dangerous ruck rovers on the half-forward flank in the Grand Final, Phil performed his role with discipline and composure.
While his playing career included 94 league games, 10 goals he retired at the end of 1981 before moving to Perth the following year for work where he played for Claremont, Phil’s contribution to Sturt extended far beyond the field.
At the end of 1995, Sturt Football Club was in a precarious financial position. Unless $250,000 could be raised, the Club faced the prospect of collapse. The Board resolved to pursue a merger with North Adelaide, but the proposal was strongly opposed by supporters determined to preserve Sturt’s identity.
At a special meeting at Unley Oval, a resurgence group was formed with the clear objective of increasing membership and securing the Club’s survival. That group was led by Phil.
Through tireless advocacy, organisation and belief in what Sturt represented, Phil and supporters galvanised the Club community. The campaign proved decisive. The merger proposal was halted, membership surged to more than 2,000, and Sturt became second only to Port Adelaide in total membership within the SANFL.
Phil faced his long illness with courage and quiet resolve. The photo was taken at the 2025 Grand Final where Phil proudly and bravely watched Sturt win their 16th Premiership. On behalf of everyone at Sturt Football Club, we extend our sincere condolences to Phil’s family and loved ones at this difficult time.
