After much anticipation, we finally got to see the exciting Shaun Edwards take the field in 2015.
Joining the Club after leaving the GWS Giants in 2013, Edwards spent the entire 2014 season playing for the Essendon VFL side, where he slowly built up the weaker areas of his game.
“I had to work on the contested side of my game and my defensive transitions,” said Edwards
“All the attacking stuff comes kind of naturally.”
Edwards would get his chance in round 11 against the West Coast Eagles, where he was named for his first game in the Red and Black.
Finishing the day with a tidy 17 possessions and two goals, Edwards caught the eye of the football community with his natural attack on the ball, agility as well as willingness to take on the opposition.
The 21-year-old played another eight games in the season as the coaches managed the youngster’s load and were pleased with the progress he made.
“We saw Shaun really mature in his approach to football this year,” said Development Coach Mark Neeld.
“Everyone was aware of how skilled he was, but this year we saw him develop some real consistency to his game.
“It’ll be great to see what he’s capable of in 2016.”
After getting a taste of senior football in the red and black, Edwards is hungry for more and is hoping that he will be able to get more consistent game time in the coming year.
“It was good to break in,” said Edwards.
“I obviously had a couple of games for the Giants back in the foundation years.
“But it was good to come across and play in front of bigger crowds and with a few big names like Jobe and Cale Hooker.”
Edwards will now enjoy some time away from the Club, planning to travel with fellow teammates Joe Daniher and Will Hams.