Development coach Rhyce Shaw wants to put his “best foot forward” in his new role much in the same way the Swans’ younger brigade will aim to do during this year’s preseason campaign.
Shaw was a notable absentee from the playing group that underwent Monday’s gruelling session, the first time in 15 seasons the former defender wasn’t in the thick of the action.
Instead, he stood alongside his fellow coaches while providing some encouraging words as his former teammates who tackled the first of many preseason trainings.
He looked right at home in the authoritative grey and at ease knowing that preseason training was now behind him.
“It’s a strange feeling but a good one,” Shaw said of the transition from playing to coaching.
“I’m not going to miss the long preseasons but I’m really looking forward to the new challenge of coaching the NEAFL squad and helping the list improve.
“I think the boys are really looking forward to getting out there and sinking their teeth into what’s hopefully a good preseason. It’s going to be tough, a lot of them will need to step up and prove themselves at the next level.
“Most of the guys have had a taste for it and will really want to cement their spot in the side so it’s about putting their best foot forward, making a good impression and carrying that right through to the start of the season.”
Shaw’s approach to coaching won’t be too dissimilar to his time in the red and white, having been a valued and knowledgeable member of the playing group for seven years.
Having been involved in the leadership group for many years, Shaw’s experience as a mentor will no doubt help the 34-year-old settle into the new role.
“I won’t change my attitude,” he added.
“Being an older player I’ve probably been doing a bit of it anyway the past couple of years.
“My whole approach is to make sure I be myself while hopefully teaching the kids some good habits and make them better players. That’s all I expect.
“We’ve got a good group (of coaches). The aim will be to take these guys to the next level and get them playing some senior football.”
Shaw will work alongside John Blakey who was appointed Head of Development during the offseason.
