TIV: STRONG AS STEELE
Collingwood star Steele Sidebottom has long been admired not just for his on-field brilliance, but for his grounded and humble nature off it.
A fan favourite with the Magpie Army, he’s built a career on consistency, composure, and class. A footballer equally capable of winning the hard ball in the contest or slicing through opposition lines with elite disposal and game sense.
A key figure in Collingwood’s 2010 and 2023 Premiership wins, Steele has carved out an outstanding career, consistently ranking among the club’s best performers.
With multiple top five finishes in the Copeland Trophy and a reputation as one of the league’s smartest and most reliable midfielders, his contribution to the club has been immense.
But what sets Steele apart isn’t just his skill, it’s his character.
Despite his success, Steele has always been focused on what comes next. During his AFL career, he has studied a Certificate III in Carpentry at the Trade Institute of Victoria (TIV), alongside teammates Taylor Adams, Jordan De Goey and Will Hoskin-Elliott.
“We were only just getting stuck into the practical training, but the boys were loving the course,” Sidebottom said at the time.
“The facilities were great and everyone at TIV was really helpful.”
He was also open about the uncertainty that comes with being a professional athlete.
“I’m at the age now where I’m just not completely sure what I want to do when I finish my footy career,” he said matter-of-factly.
“I’ve always had an interest in Carpentry and the building industry in general, but when the TIV boys came down to the club and presented to the group it made it clear to me that this is something I really want to do.”
Even while playing for one of the biggest clubs in the country, Steele understood the importance of having a plan beyond football.
“I’m really fortunate to be playing AFL for a great club in Collingwood, but I’m also aware that there is a real world out there and preparing for life after footy is something that is very important to me.”
Humble. Honest. Hardworking.
That’s what makes him Strong as Steele.
Start your journey today at www.tiv.vic.edu.au.