Robert Shaw

Last updated on November 25, 2024 at 18:09 pm

Posted on June 15, 2024 at 13:24 pm

Personal information

Full name

Robert Shaw

Date of birth

6 January 1955 (age 69)

Place of birth

Hobart,Tasmania

Original team(s)

Sandy Bay

Height

189 cm (6 ft 2 in)

Weight

88 kg (194 lb)

Position(s)

Defender

Playing career

Years

Club

Games (Goals)


1974–81

Essendon

51 (8)


Representative team honours

Years

Team

Games (Goals)


1979–80

Tasmania

6


Coaching career

Years

Club

Games (W–L–D)


1988–93

Tasmania



1991–94

Fitzroy

86 (28–58–0)


1995–96

Adelaide

44 (17–27–0)




Robert Shaw’s enduring legacy in football showcases his passion, skills, and impact. Starting in a small Tasmanian town, he honed his talent in local leagues and school teams. His 51-game career with Essendon highlighted his defensive prowess. Despite facing major surgeries, his commitment never wavered. Shifting to coaching, Shaw led clubs to victories and molded young talent. Praised for his tactical acumen, he left a lasting mark on the football landscape. His story is a proof of determination and dedication in the world of football.

Early Life

Robert Shaw’s journey in football began with humble roots in a small Tasmanian town, where his passion for the sport ignited at a young age. Growing up, Shaw displayed a natural talent and love for football, which soon became a significant part of his life.

His early experiences playing football in local leagues and school teams laid the foundation for his future success in the sport. Despite facing challenges, Shaw’s determination and dedication to improving his skills set him apart even in his formative years.

This early exposure to the game not only shaped his playing style but also instilled in him a deep understanding and respect for the sport, which would later define his illustrious career as a player and coach.

Playing Career

During his playing career, Robert Shaw showcased exceptional skills as a talented defender for Essendon Football Club between 1974 and 1981.

  1. Consistent Performance

  • Shaw played 51 games for Essendon during his time with the club, demonstrating his reliability and commitment on the field.

  1. Defensive Prowess

  • Noted as a talented defender, Shaw’s ability to read the game and make important tackles and interceptions was instrumental in Essendon’s defensive line.

  1. Resilience and Dedication

  • Despite undergoing nine major operations during his playing career, Shaw’s determination and passion for the game never wavered, showcasing his resilience and unwavering dedication to football.

Coaching Career

Starting his coaching career in 1984, Robert Shaw shifted from his playing days to shaping young talents and leading teams to success in various football leagues. Shaw coached Clarence Football Club before achieving success with Fitzroy, winning the VFL reserves premiership in 1989. His coaching prowess was further highlighted when he led Tasmania to victory over Victoria in 1990. Shaw’s impactful coaching style saw him inducted into the Tasmanian Football League’s Hall of Fame, recognizing his significant contributions to the coaching landscape in Tasmania.

He later coached Fitzroy Football Club as senior coach from 1991 to 1994, developing young players into high-quality AFL footballers and making the Lions competitive despite financial challenges. Shaw’s tactical acumen and leadership were widely praised during his coaching stints.

Coaching Stats

Throughout his coaching career, Robert Shaw achieved a record of 28 wins and 58 losses while coaching Fitzroy Football Club from 1991 to 1994.

Notable Achievements:

  • Led Fitzroy to the VFL reserves premiership in 1989.

  • Coached Tasmania to victory over Victoria in 1990.

  • Inducted into the Tasmanian Football League’s Hall of Fame for his contributions.

Development Impact:

  • Shaw developed young players into high-quality AFL footballers.

  • Despite financial challenges, he made the Lions competitive with his tactical acumen.

  • His leadership at Fitzroy was praised for nurturing talent and keeping the team competitive.

Enduring Legacy:

  • Shaw’s coaching stats reflect his dedication and impact on Fitzroy.

  • His coaching tenure left a lasting impression on the football landscape.

  • Shaw’s coaching style and accomplishments continue to be remembered in football history.

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