Shane Sheridan’s Football Story

A quality crowd of people attended the Swan Yacht Club to celebrate Shane Sheridan’s life on Thursday 17^th July.

Memorial speeches were given by Les Fong, Laurie Heal, Ron Wilson, Bill Valli and Terry Hardy from the West Perth Football Club. The heritage committee have put together Shane Sheridan’s football club bio and are happy to share it with you.

SHANE SHERIDAN– LIFE MEMBER – FOOTBALLER

Shane Sheridan (nick named Shetland) due to his size and agility, was born on 9th February 1952 and quickly made his mark as a childhood football star in Tuart Hill Junior Football Club. Demonstrating exceptional talent from a young age, he achieved the remarkable feat of being picked and played state schoolboys football for three consecutive years—an accomplishment seldom matched.

Sheridan’s senior football journey began with West Perth, wearing No 31 guernsey, played his first game at the age of 18 years on the 11th of July 1970. He played from 1970 to 1979, amassing a total of 150 games. He was a key contributor to the team’s success and earned recognition for his outstanding performances.

Shane 2nd year at WPFC saw him picked as the second rover to the champion Bill Valli. Polly Farmer in his 4th year as coach and final year playing with West Perth, came up against the formidable Mal Brown and East Perth team in the Grand Final. Polly played his 356th and last game and won 27 possessions in their 35-point victory. Shane Sheridan in only his second year with the Cardinals, won the Simpson Medal in that 1971 premiership team, against East Perth, an incredible achievement. On the night following Shane having received his 1971 Simpson Medal, the East Perth President, Fred Book said a “little shaggy dog played a large part in the West Perth victory”. Of course he was referring to Shane’s long-haired appearance. Sheridan also participated in the Grand Final against Subiaco in 1973 and was a member of the 1975 premiership team that triumphed over South Fremantle. Throughout his time with West Perth, he proudly wore the number 31 guernsey.

In 1980, Sheridan was traded to South Fremantle, where he added 8 games to his playing career.

Throughout his distinguished career, Shane Sheridan earned a reputation for his speed and clever playing style on the field and his unwavering commitment to his team. Renowned for his leadership of men, his match day consistency and sportsmanship, he inspired younger players both on and off the field, leaving an indelible mark on the club’s history. His leadership qualities and dedication were frequently acknowledged by teammates and supporters alike, establishing him as a role model within the football community. He was popular with the spectators and supporters of the West Perth Football Club. Sheridan’s enduring contributions ultimately cemented his legacy as a respected life member and celebrated footballer.

Simpson Medallist 1971 Grand Final.

West Perth Football Club Ball Legend 2022