When club legend Shaun McManus was asked to come down to the club for Fremantle’s NAB AFL Women’s team jumper presentation, he jumped at the opportunity.
The 228-game player was on hand to pass down some wisdom to Freo’s newest team from his 14 years in the AFL, just four days out from Saturday’s historic round one AFLW clash against the Western Bulldogs.
McManus spoke of his early days in the game, how the wearing the jumper made him feel superhuman, what it was like to play alongside greats like Matthew Pavlich, and how he gave his all when singing the club song after a win.
“I haven’t played for seven years now and I count down every single day, because it meant a hell of a lot to me,” said McManus to DockerTV.
“I was here to help the girls understand that this is such an important time in their life, and one that they should absolutely enjoy.
“It meant everything to me to play for Freo and I remember every single game. I tried to convey that to them, so they know that this moment in time will be one that lasts forever.”
McManus’ long career started in 1995, just five games into the club’s history, and he could see a lot of parallels from Fremantle’s early days.
“When we first started, I think we had to earn a lot of respect from the AFL,” McManus said.
“I think the girls will be going through that themselves from the outside world…can they really play, how good are they, will it last?
“Fremantle were in a similar position when we started, people were wondering about this bunch of guys from WA, and a lot of them were WAFL players. They didn’t think we were going to last in the competition, and nobody saw us as a threat, so I think there’s a few areas that we could line up with them.”
To McManus, the new AFLW competition is a huge step for the game, and he’s seen first-hand what is in store as today’s players inspire the next generation.
“I think it’s unbelievable,” McManus said.
“I’ve watched a lot of junior sports lately, and in particular my younger son who is playing footy, and some of the girls are way better than the boys.
“It’s an opportunity for them as they wont have to stop playing at seven, eight, nine or ten, but to keep playing and to be a part of this amazing game.”
During McManus’ emotional speech, it was clear that he missed the game and had a tinge of envy for those on the cusp of their careers.
“I wish I could turn back the clock but I can’t,” McManus said.
“It’s one of those things that you always want more of. I played 14 years but I wish I could have played 15, I really do. I wouldn’t give it up for anything.”
HOW TO WATCH FREMANTLE'S UPCOMING AFLW GAMES
Round 1. Western Bulldogs v Fremantle, 4:40pm (WST) Saturday 4 February at VU Whitten Oval
Broadcast live nationally Channel 7mate and Fox Footy
Round 2. Fremantle v Brisbane, 4:05pm (WST) Sunday 12 February (WST) at Fremantle Oval
With free entry, there's every reason to get down to Fremantle Oval to support Freo in their first game at home!
AFLW fixture and broadcast information
