Kevin Sheedy was never shy in giving young players an opportunity and Scott Lucas knows that better than most.
At the age of 18, Lucas was picked to make his AFL debut on the biggest home and away stage.
It was ANZAC Day 1996 and nearly 90,000 people were on hand for the second instalment of what is now an annual clash.
Sheedy was well aware of the magnitude of the game after 94,825 people witnessed the draw 1995.
So, starting with Lucas, the master Coach picked one debutant for each of the next three ANZAC Day matches.
“He always really backed in younger players, he was prepared to give them a go to show what they could do and see if they could perform on the big stage,” Lucas said.
“Clubs that show faith in their younger players if things aren’t going well really comes on the back of ‘Sheeds’ … and 1993 with the ‘Baby Bombers’ where he really threw those younger players into the team and got enormous rewards out of them.
“He has shaped the lives of myself and a lot of other young players and taught you life long lessons that we still rely on today.”
On Thursday June 29 Essendon will celebrate one of the most remarkable careers in the game’s history.
‘50 Years of Sheeds’ will honour the great Kevin Sheedy.
From his days as a premiership winning Tiger, to transforming the Bombers into a national powerhouse, to launching the Giants, to his vision that has seen ANZAC Day, Dreamtime at the ‘G and now the Country Festival form crucial components of the AFL calendar … his contribution to the game is unrivalled.
Join us as we celebrate ‘50 Years of Sheeds’ at the iconic MCG on Thursday June 29.
Guests will enjoy canapés on arrival as well as a two-course meal and beverages.
Premium packages are available.
Tim Watson will MC this once in a lifetime evening, featuring special guest appearances from some of the AFL’s most influential personalities, along with past and present players.
Tickets available here
Date: Thursday 29 June
Time: 6:30pm – 11:00pm
Venue: MCG Members Dining Room, Level 2, Gate 2 entry
Price: $230 DRC Members, $250 Non Members
Dress: Lounge Suit
