Shaun Edwards

[bloodspirit]

After reading this article - Shaun Edwards looks towards familiar surrounds to restart career at Essendon - I am optimistic that we can make something out of Shaun Edwards. Given his talent, it's unclear why he's been delisted twice except that it would seem to do with his application. I'm sure our recruiters did their due diligence on this. Hopefully Shaun will realise that realistically this is his last chance at an AFL career and knuckle down and maybe he is maturing too. Also, in this article - Edwards excited by opportunity - sydneyswans.com.au - he says:

?I have had a few dealings with Michael O?Loughlin and Adam Goodes over the time and they are just champion blokes both on and off the field. I thought it would be the best thing for my footy to get up here and surround myself with good people.?

This suggests that he may have the support of Mickey O and Goodsey which could definitely make a difference since they are truly exceptional role models and presumably he looks up to them. Finally, he apparently had a good season in 2016 with Essendon VFL team and has been running well. If he could only turn up in the top 10 of a Swans time trial I would be really encouraged.

A question: At what position and in which draft was he drafted by GWS? According to Wikipedia (Shaun Edwards (Australian footballer) - Wikipedia), he was drafted in 2011. However, looking on Wikipedia's 2011 AFL Draft page there is no mention of him: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2011_AFL_draft.

Given his relative maturity and experience he is probably the new recruit with the best chance of debuting first. Fingers crossed.

[mattybloods]

I think he was shenanigans, NT zone selection? in 2011

[Ludwig]

Here is a statement from Essendon regarding his delisting:

Essendon football manager Rob Kerr thanked Edwards for his commitment to the club.

?Shaun is a wonderful young man who was not only committed to the performance and success of the club, but also showed great leadership with his work in the community as recognised by his Bill Hutchison Community Award this year,? Kerr said.

?Shaun is a great role model who constantly strives to make a difference both on and off the field.

?He is well respected by his teammates and will always be welcome at Essendon.

He's been an inconsistent performer, but I'm not sure the reason for it. Otherwise, he seems to be a committed young footballer. Maybe we can help him reach his best level on a consistent basis, because his best is pretty good. He's also a mate of Tony Olango.

[707]

I think he was shenanigans, NT zone selection? in 2011

Correct, was a NT Zone selection for GWS, an original Giant.

Edwards has always had ability but probably wasn't a dedicated as he needed to be. He will be 23 shortly and has obviously now matured. I think we will see the best of him given he realises this is make or break, and good role models at the club will ensure he reaches his potential. At 190 cm and talented, he may just be a surprise packet.

[Nico]

I read that comment by Kerr as: he is a good bloke but not much of a footballer. Only pointed out his good side. Bit like a job reference these days. Not worth the paper they are written on because you are not allowed to point out weaknesses.

[bloodspirit]

Thanks mattybloods and 707. Funny he isn't accounted for on the wiki page but I guess it's just a gap/oversight.