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Former owner and chairman of the Perth Wildcats Dr. Jack Bendat AM has passed away at the age of 96.
Dr Bendat purchased the Wildcats in 2006 and the family had remained private owners of the franchise up until 2021.
Dr Bendat sold the Wildcats to Sports Entertainment Network during 2021.
Wildcats CEO Troy Georgiu said the club was deeply saddened by Jack's passing.
“While Jack demanded success on the court, his greater priority was for the club to make a positive impact on the West Australian community – particularly on school children in lower socio-economic areas.
“He used the profile of players to motivate students to improve literacy and numeracy while reducing truancy. He also saw the club’s brand an as an opportunity to promote a healthy lifestyle to the community. He was adored by the Red Army and nothing filled him with greater joy than seeing RAC Arena full of 13,000 fans wearing red and cheering the Wildcats on to victory.
“Jack’s impact on this organisation is immeasurable and his legacy ongoing. We are forever grateful for what he has done for basketball in Western Australia.”
Dr. Bendat not only saved the Wildcats from financial hardship but in more recent times purchased and re-built the Perth Lynx and also invested in the community by becoming a naming rights partner of the Bendat Basketball Centre.
IMAGE: FILE