Shane Edwards
{{Short description|Australian rules footballer}}
{{Distinguish|text=Shaun Edwards (Australian footballer) from Greater Western Sydney, Essendon and Sydney}}
{{For|the American basketball player|Shane Edwards (basketball)}}
{{Use Australian English|date=July 2017}}
{{Use dmy dates|date=July 2017}}
{{Infobox AFL biography
| name = Shane Edwards
| image = Shane Edwards 2017.3.jpg
| image_size = 200px
| caption = Edwards with Richmond in June 2017
| fullname =
| nickname = Titch, Shedda,{{cite web |title=Caddy on The Sunday Footy Show |url=http://www.richmondfc.com.au/video/2018-06-04/caddy-on-the-sunday-footy-show |website=Richmond FC |access-date=5 June 2018}}
| birth_date = {{Birth date and age|df=yes|1988|10|25}}
| birth_place =
| death_date =
| death_place =
| originalteam = North Adelaide (SANFL)
| draftpick = No. 26, 2006 AFL National Draft: {{AFL Ric}}
| debutdate = Round 4, 2007
| debutteam = {{AFL Ric}}
| debutopponent = {{AFL WB}}
| debutstadium = MCG
| height = 182 cm
| weight = 81 kg
| position = Utility
| years1 = 2007–2022
| club1 = {{AFL Ric}}
| games_goals1 = 303 (189)
| statsend = 2022 season
| sooyears1 = 2015
| sooteam1 = Indigenous All-Stars
| soogames_goals1 = 1 (0)
| sooyears2 = 2020
| sooteam2 = All Stars
| soogames_goals2 = 1 (0)
| repstatsend = 2020
| careerhighlights =
- 3× AFL premiership player: 2017, 2019, 2020
- All-Australian team: 2018
- Yiooken Award: 2018
- Jack Titus Medal (2nd RFC B&F): 2019
- 2× Fred Swift Medal (4th RFC B&F): 2014, 2018
}}
Shane Edwards (born 25 October 1988) is a former Australian rules football player who played for the Richmond Football Club in the Australian Football League (AFL). He is a three-time premiership player, an All-Australian and has three times placed in the top five in Richmond best and fairest awards. He holds the Richmond club records for most games by any Indigenous player and most games by any player in the number 10 guernsey.
Edwards is on record as saying he would like to go into recruitment and list management at the end of his AFL playing career.{{Cite web |last=Keating |first=Mitch |date=2022-07-26 |title=From Tiger to talent scout: Richmond's milestone man hoping to extend Punt Road impact post-career |url=https://www.zerohanger.com/from-tiger-to-talent-scout-richmonds-milestone-man-hoping-to-extend-punt-road-impact-post-career-124395/ |access-date=2022-07-27 |website=Zero Hanger |language=en-US}}
Early life and junior football
Edwards was born in South Australia to parents Tara and Greg. He spent his childhood years in the Adelaide suburb of Golden Grove and attended the local Golden Grove High School. He began playing football at age eight with the local Golden Grove Kookaburras in their inaugural year.
While playing at Under-13 level he signed with his locally zoned SANFL club North Adelaide and began playing with the club's junior sides. He was a member of the club's Under-19 premiership in 2006. Edwards made his senior SANFL debut at age 17 and played 10 games at senior level in 2006.
Edwards represented South Australia at the 2006 AFL Under 18 Championships. He kicked a goal in the state's second round loss to Victoria Country.{{cite web|title=2006 NAB AFL Under 18 {{sic|nolink=y|reason=error in source|Chamionships}}|url=http://www.vflfooty.com/comment/17676#comment-17676|website=VFLfooty.com|access-date=19 July 2017}}
At the 2006 national draft combine he recorded top three scores in the beep test, three kilometre time trial and the standing vertical leap test.
AFL career
=2007 season=
Edwards was drafted by {{AFL Ric}} with the club's second pick and the 26th selection overall in the 2006 AFL National Draft.
He made his AFL debut in round 4 of the 2007 season in a match against the {{AFL WB}} at the MCG. Edwards' first career goal came during his fifth match, in Round 10 against Brisbane. His first win came eight matches later, in round 19 against {{AFL Col}}. At the conclusion of his debut season Edwards had played 16 matches, kicked 11 goals and held averages of 10.3 disposals and 2.1 per game.
=2008 season=
Edwards again missed out on round 1 selection in 2008 before playing his first match for the season in round 4. He played eight straight matches before missing out for the club's Round 12 clash with {{AFL Mel}}. He kicked goals in six of those matches including two goals in rounds 5 and 7 and three goals in round 9 against {{AFL Ess}}. For his performance in that match he received his first Brownlow Medal vote.{{cite web|title=Round 9 2008, Essendon v Richmond|url=http://afltables.com/afl/stats/games/2008/051420080524.html|website=AFL Tables|access-date=19 July 2017}} Edwards finished the season having again played 16 matches, but with one more goal and 20 more disposals than the previous year.
=2009 season=
2009 began with Edwards in the club's best 22, where he stayed through the first three rounds of the season. But a six disposal performance in round 3 saw him dropped to reserves level where he stayed until Round 7.{{cite web|title=Round 3 2009, Western Bulldogs v Richmond|url=http://afltables.com/afl/stats/players/S/Shane_Edwards.html|website=AFL Tables|access-date=19 July 2017}} He did not get selected the following week however, and remained at reserves level until the midway point of the season. But when coach Terry Wallace was sacked prior to Round 12, Edwards saw new opportunity under caretaker Jade Rawlings.{{cite news|title=Wallace and Richmond part ways|url=http://www.theage.com.au/news/rfnews/wallace-and-richmond-part-ways/2009/06/01/1243708385860.html|access-date=19 July 2017|work=The Age|publisher=Fairfax Media|date=1 June 2009}} He was selected to play in Round 12 and kicked two goals to go with 17 disposals and six tackles in the club's win over {{AFL|WC}} at the Telstra Dome.{{cite web|title=Round 12 2009, Richmond v West Coast|url=http://afltables.com/afl/stats/games/2009/141820090613.html|website=AFL Tables|access-date=19 July 2017}} He did not miss a game for the rest of the season, recording an average of 13.6 disposals a game over the back half.
=2010 season=
Ahead of the 2010 season incoming coach Damien Hardwick assured Edwards that his development was a club priority, promising he would be selected in all 22 of the club's home and away matches that season. He played in the club's first two matches of the season before playing his 50th career match in Round 3 against {{AFL Syd}}. He recorded his first ever 20 disposal performance in that match.{{cite web|title=Round 3 2010, Sydney v Richmond|url=http://afltables.com/afl/stats/games/2010/141620100410.html|website=AFL Tables|access-date=20 July 2017}}
In Round 10 he set a career high with 11 tackles against {{AFL PA}} He broke his own disposal record on four occasions including a season-best 28 disposals in Richmond's Round 18 win over Adelaide.{{cite news|last1=Cullen|first1=Mic|title=Edwards helps crack Crows code|url=http://www.richmondfc.com.au/news/2010-08-02/edwards-helps-crack-crows-code|access-date=20 July 2017|work=Richmond FC|publisher=Telstra Media|date=2 August 2010}} As promised, Edwards finished the season having played in all 22 Richmond matches. He set then-career-best totals in all major statistical categories as well as in tackles and disposals per game.
For his break-out season Edwards placed sixth in the club's best and fairest count.{{cite news|last1=Cullen|first1=Mic|title=Riewoldt is Richmond's B&F|url=http://www.afl.com.au/news/2010-09-01/riewoldt-is-richmonds-bf|access-date=20 July 2017|work=AFL Media|publisher=Telstra Media|date=1 September 2010}}
=2011 season=
Having cemented a spot in the club's best 22 the year prior, Edwards played in each of the first eight matches of the 2011 season, including with a career best tally of nine marks in round 4 against {{AFL Col}}.{{cite news |last1=Greenberg |first1=Tony |title=Tigers out of the drafts: 2006 |url=https://www.richmondfc.com.au/news/2018-11-12/tigers-out-of-the-drafts-2006 |access-date=10 September 2019 |work=Richmond FC |publisher=Telstra Media |date=12 November 2019}} However, in Round 8, he injured his cheekbone in a centre-square collision at the opening bounce. He was immediately ruled out for the remainder of the match and missed a further two matches as a result of the injury.{{cite news|last1=Daffey|first1=Paul|title='Titch' switch|url=http://www.richmondfc.com.au/news/2012-01-27/titch-switch|access-date=20 July 2017|work=Richmond FC|publisher=AFL Media|date=27 January 2012}} When he returned in Round 12 he would again secure his place, playing in the final 12 matches of the season and finishing the season with 20 games and four goals.
=2012 season=
In a January 2012 time trial Edwards placed fourth of all Richmond players and maintained his claim as one of the club's most damaging runners.{{cite news|title=Richmond's Bachar Houli makes flying start to 2012|url=http://www.heraldsun.com.au/sport/afl/richmonds-bachar-houli-makes-flying-start-to-2012/news-story/4b5c11272c9fcce0a23d5b84e6b7aa8c?nk=76a8a0e279d6b123d45d7a6a0f6c99e9-1500541111|access-date=20 July 2017|work=Herald Sun|publisher=News Corp Australia|date=7 January 2012}} He played in the first three matches of the season before missing in rounds 4 and 5. When he returned in round 6 he did not leave the side, playing in each of the last 17 matches of the season. He held a multiple goal streak of six games when he kicked four lots of two and two lots of three goals between Rounds 8 and 14. The final match in that streak was the 100th of his AFL career, played in round 14 against {{AFL Ade}} at AAMI Stadium.{{cite web|title=Round 14 2012, Adelaide v Richmond|url=http://afltables.com/afl/stats/games/2016/131420160430.html|website=AFL Tables|access-date=20 July 2017}} He kicked a career high four goals in round 20 2012 against the {{AFL WB}} at the MCG before setting another career best with four goal assists in round 22's match against {{AFL Ess}}.{{cite web|title=Round 20 2012, Richmond v Western Bulldogs|url=http://afltables.com/afl/stats/games/2012/071420120812.html|website=AFL Tables|access-date=19 July 2017}} In that same match Edwards was reported for and ultimately acquitted of a striking charge for a hit on {{AFL Ess}}'s Angus Monfries.{{cite news|title=Hawthorn midfielder Jordan Lewis cleared of sling tackle|url=http://www.news.com.au/sport/afl/hawthorn-midfielder-jordan-lewis-cleared-of-sling-tackle/news-story/4c402c340739d4a9f3cb5c8e9af0233a|access-date=20 July 2017|work=news.com.au|publisher=News Corp Australia|date=27 August 2012}} For the second straight season he finished with 20 games in the season, though improved his goal-kicking tally to 29. It was good for third best at the club that season and helped earn him an eighth-place finish in the Jack Dyer Medal count.{{cite web|title=2012 Player Stats|url=http://afltables.com/afl/stats/2012.html#14|website=AFL Tables|access-date=20 July 2017}}{{cite news|title=Sheds set to shine|url=http://www.richmondfc.com.au/news/2013-03-07/sheds-set-to-shine|access-date=20 July 2017|work=Richmond FC|publisher=Telstra Media|date=7 March 2013}}
=2013 season=
Edwards saw his role change slightly in 2013, playing more minutes in the midfield.{{cite news|last1=Gullan|first1=Scott|title=Richmond's Shane Edwards to embrace Dreamtime clash against Essendon|url=http://www.heraldsun.com.au/sport/afl/richmonds-shane-edwards-to-embrace-dreamtime-clash-against-essendon/news-story/384fa518041e421fcbba47c588f0f633?nk=76a8a0e279d6b123d45d7a6a0f6c99e9-1500554127|access-date=20 July 2017|work=Herald Sun|publisher=News Corp Australia|date=21 May 2013}} In addition his leadership role was increased, captaining the club in its pre-season clash with the Indigenous All Stars in Alice Springs.{{cite news|title=Edwards' emotional Alice trip|url=http://www.richmondfc.com.au/news/2013-02-13/edwards-emotional-alice-trip|access-date=20 July 2017|work=Richmond FC|publisher=Telstra Media|date=13 February 2013}} In Round 6 Edwards recorded a career best 30 disposals in a match against {{AFL Gee}} at the MCG.{{cite web|title=Round 6 2013, Richmond v Geelong|url=http://afltables.com/afl/stats/games/2013/091420130504.html|website=AFL Tables|access-date=20 July 2017}} He suffered an eye injury in the third quarter of the club's Round 10 match against {{AFL|WC}}. He was substituted from the game and did not return to add to his two-goal first half tally.{{cite news|last1=Quatermaine|first1=Braden|title=Richmond demolish West Coast by 41 points at Patersons Stadium to move into the top eight|url=http://www.heraldsun.com.au/sport/afl/richmond-demolish-west-coast-by-41-points-at-paterson-stadium-to-move-into-the-top-eight/news-story/f043fcc52a09c5acf604bec000271c3a|access-date=20 July 2017|work=Herald Sun|agency=PerthNow|publisher=News Corp Australia|date=3 June 2013}} With Richmond's bye the following week he was able to recover and avoid missing a match as a result of the injury. He did however miss matches in Rounds 20, 21 and 23 before returning fully fit to play in his first final, a losing effort against Carlton at the MCG. At years end he had played 20 matches, kicked 11 goals and set a then career-best tackles per-game mark. He placed 14th in the club's best and fairest that season.{{cite news|last1=Greenberg|first1=Tony|title=2013 JDM: Jackson jags Jack|url=http://www.richmondfc.com.au/news/2013-09-30/jackson-jags-jack|access-date=20 July 2017|work=Richmond FC|publisher=Telstra Media|date=20 September 2013}}
{{Quote box
| quote = He's an incredible talent, he does things that only a few people can do. The ability for him to get in and out of traffic and create goals for others is outstanding.
| source = Damien Hardwick, Richmond coach - 2014
| width = 25%
| align = right
}}
=2014 season=
2014 would prove an exceptional year for Edwards, but one which included a form reversal after a relatively slow start. After playing in Richmond's first six matches of the season Edwards would be played as Richmond's substitute in its Round 7 match against {{AFL Gee}}.{{cite news|last1=McFarlane|first1=Glenn|title=Richmond's Shane Edwards taking risks and playing on instinct|url=http://www.heraldsun.com.au/sport/afl/teams/richmond/richmonds-shane-edwards-taking-risks-and-playing-on-instinct/news-story/877aa9101293dd4d054942450cae43fb?nk=76a8a0e279d6b123d45d7a6a0f6c99e9-1500441143|access-date=19 July 2017|work=Herald Sun|publisher=News Corp Australia|date=23 August 2014}} Despite the setback he ultimately kicked two goals in just 39 per cent time on ground.{{cite web|title=Round 7 2014, Geelong v Richmond|url=http://afltables.com/afl/stats/games/2014/091420140504.html|website=AFL Tables|access-date=19 July 2017}}
In late May he signed a new two-year contract extension, forgoing the lure of unrestricted free-agency.{{cite news|last1=Bowen|first1=Nick|title=Edwards stays with Tigers, avoids free agency|url=http://www.afl.com.au/news/2014-05-21/another-free-agent-down|access-date=24 July 2017|work=AFL Media|publisher=Telstra Media|date=21 May 2014}} By Round 15 he began to turn an average season into a special one, with a 20 disposal and six clearance match against St Kilda.
He was later named among the club's best players for a 21 disposal and one goal performance against the {{AFL GWS}} in Round 21.{{cite news|last1=Hayes|first1=Mark|title=Richmond defeats GWS Giants by 37 points to notch fifth consecutive win, Reece Conca reported|url=http://www.heraldsun.com.au/sport/afl/teams/richmond/richmond-defeats-gws-giants-by-37-points-to-notch-fifth-consecutive-win-reece-conca-reported/news-story/ec447f389c1507a2968f1797ed49ebb0|access-date=24 July 2017|work=Herald Sun|publisher=News Corp Australia|date=2 August 2014}} Edwards then played his 150th AFL match in Richmond's Round 22 win over {{AFL StK}}.{{cite news|last1=Phelan|first1=Jennifer|title=Shy South Australian Shane Edwards reaches 150-game milestone at Tigers|url=http://www.afl.com.au/news/2014-08-24/edwards-journey-to-150|access-date=19 July 2017|work=AFL Media|publisher=Telstra Media|date=24 August 2014}} During the club's nine match win streak from Round 15 to 23 he averaged 20.7 disposals, 11.2 contested possessions, one goal and 3.5 tackles per game.{{cite news|title=14 in 14: Shane Edwards|url=http://www.richmondfc.com.au/news/2014-09-17/14-in-14-shane-edwards|access-date=24 July 2017|work=Richmond FC|publisher=Telstra Media|date=17 September 2014}}{{cite news|last1=Morgan|first1=Kym|title=Former Rooster Shane Edwards flies under the radar with Richmond|url=http://www.adelaidenow.com.au/sport/afl/teams/richmond/former-rooster-shane-edwards-flies-under-the-radar-with-richmond/news-story/513f5cb4765886c3822f78e8fd39e70f?nk=76a8a0e279d6b123d45d7a6a0f6c99e9-1500441134|access-date=19 July 2017|work=The Advertiser|publisher=News Corp Australia|date=4 September 2014}} He again played in a losing elimination final in 2014, this time contributing 11 disposals and one goal in the match against {{AFL PA}}.{{cite web|title=Elimination Final 2014, Port Adelaide v Richmond|url=http://afltables.com/afl/stats/games/2014/131420140907.html|website=AFL Tables|access-date=24 July 2017}}
At season's end Edwards was awarded the Fred Swift Medal for placing fourth in the club's best and fairest count in 2014.{{cite news|last1=Greenberg|first1=Tony|title=Cotchin's Jack Dyer Medal treble|url=http://www.richmondfc.com.au/news/2014-09-30/cotchins-jack-dyer-medal-treble|access-date=24 July 2017|work=Richmond FC|publisher=Telstra Media|date=30 September 2014}}
He was also awarded Richmond life membership in December that year after celebrating his 150th match for the club at AFL level.{{cite news|title=New Richmond life members recognised|url=http://www.richmondfc.com.au/news/2014-12-10/new-richmond-life-members-recognised|access-date=24 July 2017|work=Richmond FC|publisher=Telstra Media|date=10 December 2014}}
=2015 season=
As with the back-half of 2014, Edwards would again attend centre-bounces and play a predominately midfield role in the 2015 season.{{cite news|title=The rise and rise of Shane Edwards|url=http://www.richmondfc.com.au/news/2015-05-15/the-rise-and-rise-of-shane-edwards|access-date=24 July 2017|work=Richmond FC|publisher=Telstra Media|date=15 May 2015}} He started the season by recording 21 disposals together with game highs in clearances (7) and contested possessions (15) in Richmond's win over {{AFL Car}} at the MCG.{{cite web|title=Round 1 2015, Carlton v Richmond|url=http://afltables.com/afl/stats/games/2015/031420150402.html|website=AFL Tables|access-date=24 July 2017}} He received six votes (second to only Taylor Hunt) in the AFL Coaches Association award for the match.{{cite news|title=Taylor tops coaches votes|url=http://www.richmondfc.com.au/news/2015-04-08/taylor-tops-coaches-votes|access-date=24 July 2017|work=Richmond FC|publisher=Telstra Media|date=8 April 2015}} He missed Round 2 with calf tightness but made a quick return to kick a goal and rack up 26 disposals in Round 3's win over Brisbane.{{cite news|last1=Bowen|first1=Nick|title=Doc Larkins' injury update: round two|url=http://www.afl.com.au/news/2015-04-13/injury-update-round-two|access-date=24 July 2017|work=AFL Media|publisher=Telstra Media|date=13 April 2015}} The Richmond club website named him the Tigers' best on ground the following week after he recorded 24 disposals, two goals, seven clearances and five tackles in the Round 4 Anzac Day eve clash against {{AFL Mel}}.{{cite news|title=Tigers upset by Demons on Anzac Eve|url=http://www.richmondfc.com.au/news/2015-04-24/tigers-upset-by-demons-on-anzac-eve|access-date=24 July 2017|work=Richmond FC|publisher=Telstra Media|date=24 April 2015}} After six rounds he held averages of 22 disposals, five tackles and one goal per game.{{cite news|last1=Beveridge|first1=Riley|title=2015 AFL: Who is your club's most undervalued and underrated player?|url=https://www.foxsports.com.au/news/2015-afl-who-is-your-clubs-most-undervalued-and-underrated-player/news-story/3aa2df51f04b70893f313d9855694173|access-date=24 July 2017|work=Fox Sports|publisher=News Corp Australia|date=14 May 2015}} He again missed a match in Round 7, this time with a corked calf.{{cite news|title=Round 8 team: Edwards, Griffiths return|url=http://www.richmondfc.com.au/news/2015-05-22/round-8-team-edwards-griffiths-return|access-date=24 July 2017|work=Richmond FC|publisher=Telstra Media|date=22 May 2015}} Edwards was named best on ground when he was awarded three Brownlow votes in Round 9's Dreamtime at the 'G match against {{AFL Ess}}.{{cite web|title=Round 9 2015, Richmond v Essendon|url=http://afltables.com/afl/stats/games/2015/051420150530.html|website=AFL Tables|access-date=24 July 2017}} He was fined $2,500 by the AFL Match Review panel after he was found to have started and partook in melee in the club's Round 10 win over ladder-leading Fremantle.{{cite news|title=AFL fines Richmond's Shane Edwards, Ty Vickery and Jack Riewoldt over melee|url=http://www.abc.net.au/news/2015-06-08/afl-hands-out-melee-fines/6530350|access-date=24 July 2017|work=ABC.net.au|agency=AAP|publisher=Australian Broadcasting Corporation|date=9 June 2015}} At the mid-season bye Edwards held averages of 21.6 disposals, 0.88 goals, 4.4 tackles and 4.6 clearances per game and was considered in the discussion for end of season All Australian honours. In Round 13 Edwards was bumped off the ball in an incident that saw Sydney forward Lance Franklin suspended for one week.{{cite news|title=Lance Franklin reported for bumping Shane Edwards in the head|url=http://www.heraldsun.com.au/sport/afl/teams/sydney/lance-franklin-reported-for-bumping-shane-edwards-in-the-head/news-story/8dab0e85276f74a173109841c3ac9223?nk=76a8a0e279d6b123d45d7a6a0f6c99e9-1500882230|access-date=24 July 2017|work=Herald Sun|publisher=News Corp Australia|date=26 June 2015}}{{cite news|last1=Hogan|first1=Jesse|title=Match Review Panel: Sydney Swans Lance Franklin, Kurt Tippett offered one week|url=http://www.theage.com.au/afl/afl-news/match-review-panel-sydney-swans-lance-franklin-kurt-tippett-offered-one-week-20150629-gi0lsq.html|access-date=24 July 2017|work=The Age|publisher=Fairfax Media|date=29 June 2015}} Edwards was named among Richmond's best players for a two-goal game, 24 disposal performance in Round 14 against the GWS Giants.{{cite news|last1=Hanlon|first1=Peter|title=Jack Riewoldt and Shane Edwards get the Tigers home|url=http://www.theage.com.au/afl/afl-match-report/jack-riewoldt-and-shane-edwards-get-the-tigers-home-20150704-gi556r.html|access-date=24 July 2017|work=The Age|publisher=Fairfax Media|date=4 July 2015}} He was substituted in the third quarter of the next week's match after suffering a lower leg injury.{{cite news|last1=Edmund|first1=Sam|title=Shane Edwards suffers possible broken leg, will have scans after ugly win over Carlton|url=http://www.heraldsun.com.au/sport/afl/teams/richmond/shane-edwards-suffers-possible-broken-leg-will-have-scans-after-ugly-win-over-carlton/news-story/7e913f331ca8dcc0e832f937eef482c7?nk=76a8a0e279d6b123d45d7a6a0f6c99e9-1500880436|access-date=24 July 2017|work=Herald Sun|publisher=News Corp Australia|date=10 July 2015}} Scans later revealed he had sustained a hairline fracture in his right fibula and initial estimates placed a two to three week timeline on recovery.{{cite news|last1=Nicholson|first1=Larissa|title=Richmond's Shane Edwards out for two to three weeks|url=http://www.theage.com.au/afl/richmonds-shane-edwards-out-for-two-to-three-weeks-20150711-gia5tw.html|access-date=24 July 2017|work=The Age|publisher=Fairfax Media|date=11 July 2015}}{{cite news|author=Nathan Schmook|author2=Harry Thring|name-list-style=amp|title=Hairline fracture to sideline Tiger for three weeks|url=http://www.afl.com.au/news/2015-07-11/tigers-fear-edwards-break|access-date=24 July 2017|work=AFL Media|publisher=Telstra Media|date=11 July 2015}} He ultimately missed five matches of AFL football, before returning in the club's Round 21 win over Collingwood. For the third straight season Edwards played in a losing elimination final with the club. He was this time the subject of some controversy when no free kick was paid for his tackle on {{AFL NM}}'s Ben Cunnington deep in the Richmond forward line late in the match's fourth quarter.{{cite news|last1=Schmook|first1=Nathan|title=Hardwick slams 'diabolical' umpiring decision late in heartbreaking loss|url=http://www.afl.com.au/news/2015-09-13/dimma-slams-diabolical-call|access-date=24 July 2017|work=AFL Media|publisher=Telstra Media|date=13 September 2015}} Coach Damien Hardwick called the non-decision "diabolical" while AFL umpiring boss Hayden Kennedy later admitted the call was incorrect and should have been rewarded with a free kick on goal.{{cite news|last1=Bowen|first1=Nick|title=I thought I was gone: Roo on that tackle|url=http://www.afl.com.au/news/2015-09-16/i-thought-i-was-gone-says-cunnington-about-the-edwards-tackle|access-date=24 July 2017|work=AFL Media|publisher=Telstra Media|date=16 September 2015}}
=2016 season=
In addition to signing a fresh contract extension, Edwards' 2015-16 off season saw him added to the club's five-man leadership group.{{cite news|last1=Murnane|first1=Matt|title=Richmond playmaker Shane Edwards protected from free agency raid, signing contract until end of 2019|url=http://www.theage.com.au/afl/afl-news/richmond-playmaker-shane-edwards-protected-from-free-agency-raid-signing-contract-until-end-of-2019-20151026-gkiqcd.html|access-date=24 July 2017|work=The Age|publisher=Fairfax Media|date=26 October 2015}}{{cite news|title=Rance, Edwards elevated to leadership group|url=http://www.richmondfc.com.au/news/2016-01-15/rance-edwards-elevated-to-leadership-group|access-date=24 July 2017|work=Richmond FC|publisher=Telstra Media|date=15 January 2016}} In the pre-season Edwards was moved to a more permanent forward role, a switch endorsed by Network Seven commentator and Richmond club legend Matthew Richardson.{{cite news|title='Richo' supports 'Sheds' shift|url=http://www.richmondfc.com.au/news/2016-03-09/richo-supports-sheds-shift|work=Richmond FC|publisher=Telstra Media|date=9 March 2016}} Edwards suffered a bruised collarbone in the final pre-season match of the year and faced a reduced training load in the lead up to Round 1.{{cite news|last1=Cherny|first1=Daniel|title=Richmond midfielder Shane Edwards suffers collarbone injury against Port Adelaide|url=http://www.theage.com.au/afl/afl-news/richmond-midfielder-shane-edwards-suffers-collarbone-injury-against-port-adelaide-20160310-gng0ch.html|access-date=24 July 2017|work=The Age|publisher=Fairfax Media|date=10 March 2016}}{{cite news|last1=Wood|first1=Lauren|title=Richmond says Shane Edwards shoulder injury not as serious as first thought|url=http://www.heraldsun.com.au/sport/afl/teams/richmond/richmond-says-shane-edwards-shoulder-injury-not-as-serious-as-first-thought/news-story/19dbe9e02d0188462738256963eda986|access-date=24 July 2017|work=Herald Sun|publisher=News Corp Australia|date=11 March 2016}} Though he did indeed play Round 1, he suffered another injury during the match, this time in the form of a fractured hand.{{cite news|last1=Navaratnam|first1=Dinny|title=Tigers injury woes grow: Midfielder fractures hand|url=http://www.afl.com.au/news/2016-03-26/tigers-injury-woes-grow-midfielder-shane-edwards-fractures-hand|access-date=24 July 2017|work=AFL Media|publisher=Telstra Media|date=26 March 2016}} Despite needing surgery to repair it, Edwards would miss only one match as a result of the injury.{{cite news|last1=Cherny|first1=Daniel|title=AFL season 2016: Richmond Tigers' livewire Shane Edwards breaks hand|url=http://www.theage.com.au/afl/afl-news/afl-season-2016-richmond-tigers-livewire-shane-edwards-breaks-hand-20160326-gnrgv7.html|access-date=24 July 2017|work=The Age|publisher=Fairfax Media|date=26 March 2016}}{{cite news|last1=Schmook|first1=Nathan|title=Edwards back but Lids, Ivan still out for Tigers|url=http://www.afl.com.au/news/2016-04-07/edwards-back-but-lids-and-ivan-still-missing-for-tigers|access-date=24 July 2017|work=AFL Media|publisher=Telstra Media|date=7 April 2016}} In Round 6 Edwards recorded a career high 10 clearances in Richmond's loss to Port Adelaide .{{cite web|title=Round 6 2016, Port Adelaide v Richmond|url=http://afltables.com/afl/stats/games/2016/131420160430.html|website=AFL Tables|access-date=20 July 2017}} He kicked three goals in Round 12 against {{AFL GC}}, his first such haul since Round 23, 2012. Edwards suffered a calf injury at training in late July and would miss two games as a result.{{cite news|last1=Greenberg|first1=Tony|title=Marcon to debut|url=http://www.richmondfc.com.au/news/2016-07-28/round-19-team-announcement|access-date=24 July 2017|work=Richmond FC|publisher=Telstra Media|date=28 July 2016}} At season's end Edwards held averages of 18.7 disposals and 0.8 goals per game. He placed equal 12th in the club's best and fairest count.{{cite news|last1=Greenberg|first1=Tony|title=Dusty's Jack triumph|url=http://www.richmondfc.com.au/news/2016-09-08/2016-jack-dyer-medal-winner|access-date=9 September 2016|work=Richmond FC|publisher=Bigpond|date=8 September 2016}}
=2017 season=
File:Smith tackling Edwards.jpg during the AFL round two match between Richmond and Collingwood]]
Edwards entered 2017 as Richmond's longest tenured player following the off-season departure of Brett Deledio to Greater Western Sydney.{{cite web|title=Richmond - All Time Player List|website=AFL Tables|access-date=20 July 2017|url=http://afltables.com/afl/stats/alltime/richmond.html|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170720124001/http://afltables.com/afl/stats/alltime/richmond.html|archive-date=20 July 2017}} Despite this he was removed from the club leadership group when it was reduced down from five players to three.{{cite news|title=Cotchin to captain in 2017|url=http://www.richmondfc.com.au/news/2017-03-17/2017-leadership-group-announcement|access-date=24 July 2017|work=Richmond FC|publisher=Telstra Media|date=17 March 2017}} He would play in the first two matches of the season before a hip injury sustained in the late stages of Round 2 held him out from football the following week.{{cite news|title=Edwards injury setback|url=http://www.richmondfc.com.au/news/2017-04-03/edwards-injury-setback|access-date=24 July 2017|work=Richmond FC|publisher=Telstra Media|date=3 April 2017}} After five weeks of rehab he returned to play {{AFL Fre}} in Round 8.{{cite news|last1=Phelan|first1=Jason|title=Timely returns boost Tigers against Freo|url=https://thewest.com.au/sport/afl/timely-returns-boost-tigers-against-freo-ng-s-1723711|access-date=24 July 2017|work=The West Australian|publisher=Yahoo!7|date=13 May 2017}} During Round 10's Dreamtime at the 'G clash with Essendon, Edwards swapped his number 10 guernsey for the number 67. In doing so he became one of a handful of players across the league that round to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the 1967 referendum which, among other things, changed the constitution to allow Indigenous Australians to be counted with the general population in the census.{{Cite web|url=http://www.afl.com.au/news/2017-05-24/players-number-tribute-to-indigenous-breakthrough|title=Players' number tribute to indigenous breakthrough|publisher=Telstra Media|work=AFL Media|date=24 May 2017|access-date=26 May 2017}} Through the mid-season bye he had played six matches and held averages of 17.3 disposals, 0.8 goals and 2.8 tackles per game. He did not miss a match from that point until the end of the season, including playing in his 200th career match in round 19 against the Gold Coast Suns.{{cite news|last1=Davis|first1=Greg|title=Richmond secures 12th win but must raise bar against Hawthorn|url=http://www.couriermail.com.au/sport/afl/teams/richmond/richmond-secures-12th-win-but-must-raise-bar-against-hawthorn/news-story/d527efe551d8744b208a8deba8ae8351?nk=b6fb24ffb8b8fd2acacae06bc9e80b29-1509185227|access-date=28 October 2017|work=The Courier-Mail|publisher=News Corp Australia|date=30 July 2017}} He thus became the 27th person to play 200 games at Richmond and the first indigenous player at Richmond to do so.{{cite news|last1=Homfray|first1=Reece|title=Richmond footballer Shane Edwards says 200-game milestone has crept up on him|url=http://www.adelaidenow.com.au/sport/afl/more-news/richmond-footballer-shane-edwards-says-200game-milestone-has-crept-up-on-him/news-story/f85317508ac7fc7552420cda0cd58787|access-date=28 October 2017|work=The Advertiser|publisher=News Corp Australia|date=28 July 2017}} When September came, Edwards kicked a goal, had 24 disposals and set a personal season best tally with six marks in his side's qualifying final win over Geelong.{{cite news|last1=McGarry|first1=Andrew|title=Richmond demolishes Geelong by 51 points at the MCG to reach the preliminary final|url=http://www.abc.net.au/news/2017-09-08/terrific-tigers-into-prelim-with-big-win-over-cats/8884974|access-date=28 October 2017|work=ABC News|publisher=Australian Broadcasting Corporation|date=9 September 2017}} He performed strongly in the following preliminary final too, winning 10 contested possessions and playing a key link-up role in the win over the GWS Giants.{{cite news|last1=Ryan|first1=Peter|title=Every Tigers player rated from the second preliminary final|url=http://www.afl.com.au/news/2017-09-23/every-tiger-rated-from-the-second-preliminary-final|access-date=28 October 2017|work=AFL Media|publisher=Telstra Media|date=23 September 2017}} Though it was not known publicly at the time, he sustained a broken finger in that match, the result of which saw him unable to complete simple tasks like holding a fork.{{cite news|last1=Homfray|first1=Reece|title=Richmond's Shane Edwards on the San Antonio Spurs, cancelling the footy trip, a premiership tattoo and the Tigers starting again|url=http://www.adelaidenow.com.au/sport/afl/teams/richmond/richmonds-shane-edwards-on-the-san-antonio-spurs-cancelling-the-footy-trip-a-premiership-tattoo-and-the-tigers-starting-again/news-story/79b816af2582766e39ebf330c7504f0b|access-date=10 May 2018|work=The Advertiser|publisher=News Corp Australia|date=28 March 2018}} Despite the injury Edwards turned in one of the best performances of his career in the Grand Final, leading the team for clearances and inside 50s and earning two votes in the best afield voting to finish equal third behind only Bachar Houli and winner Dustin Martin.{{cite news|author=James McKern|author2=Jai Bednall|name-list-style=amp|title=AFL Grand Final: All the players rated|url=https://www.sunshinecoastdaily.com.au/news/afl-grand-final-all-the-players-rated/3229812/|access-date=28 October 2017|work=Sunshine Coast Daily|publisher=News Corp Australia|date=1 October 2017}}{{cite news|last1=Laughton|first1=Max|title=Dustin Martin earns AFLCA Gary Ayres Award for best finals player but Bachar Houli voted best in Grand Final|url=https://www.foxsports.com.au/afl/dustin-martin-earns-aflca-gary-ayres-award-for-best-finals-player-but-bachar-houli-voted-best-in-grand-final/news-story/6a4c464145e4df52c82e6dd9057489a9|access-date=28 October 2017|work=Fox Sports|publisher=News Corp Australia|date=2 October 2017}} Edwards finished the match with 13 contested possessions and a total 25 disposals, including eight in the crucial second quarter alone.{{cite news|last1=Homfray|first1=Reece|title=Richmond premiership player Shane Edwards says flag win feels 'like a dream'|url=http://www.adelaidenow.com.au/sport/afl/more-news/richmond-premiership-player-shane-edwards-says-flag-win-feels-like-a-dream/news-story/8f2222978e8f11ffbac9733e781274cd?nk=b6fb24ffb8b8fd2acacae06bc9e80b29-1509186704|access-date=28 October 2017|work=The Advertiser|publisher=News Corp Australia|date=30 September 2017}}{{cite news|last1=Green|first1=Warwick|title=Richmond's uncompromising style drives Tigers to a flag for the ages|url=http://www.theage.com.au/afl/afl-match-report/2017-afl-grand-final-richmonds-uncompromising-style-drives-tigers-to-a-flag-for-the-ages-20170930-gyrvm4.html|access-date=28 October 2017|work=The Age|publisher=Fairfax Media|date=30 September 2017}} Richmond would ultimately win out over minor premiers Adelaide by 48 points and make Edwards a premiership player in his 11th season and 207th AFL match.{{cite news|last1=Argent|first1=Peter|title=Sons of guns earn stripes|url=http://www.barossaherald.com.au/story/4959712/sons-of-guns-earn-stripes/|access-date=28 October 2017|work=Barossa Herald|date=2 October 2017}} During that finals series he ranked second at the club for AFL Player Rating points.{{cite news|last1=Beveridge|first1=Riley|title=AFL 2018: Champion Data's biggest shocks and snubs from its list of the league's elite players|url=https://www.foxsports.com.au/afl/afl-2018-champion-datas-biggest-shocks-and-snubs-from-its-list-of-the-leagues-elite-players/news-story/11c470294460ca5ad9e9064f080721d3|access-date=11 May 2018|work=Fox Sports|publisher=News Corp Australia|date=6 February 2018}}
=2018 season=
During the 2017/18 off-season Edwards was named by the AFL's official stat keeper Champion Data as "elite" in the midfielder-forward role, one of three such players in the league.{{cite news|last1=Guthrie|first1=Ben|title=The true elites: Which clubs have got them?|url=http://www.afl.com.au/news/2018-02-03/the-true-elites-which-clubs-have-got-them|access-date=11 May 2018|work=AFL Media|publisher=Telstra Media|date=3 February 2018}} During this time he also faced a restricted training program, having his hand in a splint until late December as a result of a broken thumb sustain in the previous year's finals series. Despite this setback he showed no apparent drop in form, playing in each of the club's first three matches of the season. He was recognised among the matches' best players when he received four votes in the Coaches Association award tally in round 4's win over {{AFL Haw}}.{{cite news|title=Coaches' votes: Round 3|url=http://www.hawthornfc.com.au/news/2018-04-10/coaches-votes-round-3|access-date=10 May 2018|work=Hawthorn FC|publisher=Telstra Media|date=10 April 2018}} Edwards was again a key player in round 5, this time recording 26 disposals and five clearances in the ANZAC Day eve match against {{AFL Mel}}.{{cite news|title=Richmond Tigers down Melbourne Demons on eve of Anzac Day at the MCG|url=http://www.abc.net.au/news/2018-04-24/afl-scorecentre-melbourne-v-richmond/9693960|access-date=10 May 2018|work=ABC.com.au|publisher=Australian Broadcasting Corporation|date=24 April 2018}} He did however receive the negative attention of the AFL's Match Review Officer, attracting a $2,000 fine for rough conduct on Neville Jetta in the second quarter of that match.{{cite news|title=Edwards offered fine by MRP|url=http://www.richmondfc.com.au/news/2018-04-25/shane-edwards-mrp-verdict|access-date=10 May 2018|work=Richmond FC|publisher=Telstra Media|date=25 April 2018}} After seven rounds of the 2018 season Edwards was ranked first in the league for goal assists (23), a whole seven assists above the league's next best.{{cite news|last1=Greenberg|first1=Tony|title=Excellent Edwards|url=http://www.richmondfc.com.au/news/2018-05-10/excellent-edwards|access-date=10 May 2018|work=Richmond FC|publisher=Telstra Media|date=10 May 2018}} He was also at this time labelled by Fox Footy analyst David King as a "silent assassin" for his ability to gain ground with stealthy forward handball.{{cite news|last1=King|first1=David|title=Tackling the Tigers is proving difficult for opposition clubs, writes David King|url=http://www.heraldsun.com.au/sport/afl/expert-opinion/david-king/tackling-the-tigers-to-proving-difficult-for-opposition-clubs-writes-david-king/news-story/70058dc5792647d3dcebac6651a7436f|access-date=10 May 2018|work=Herald Sun|publisher=News Corp Australia|date=4 May 2018}} In round 11's Dreamtime at the 'G match against {{AFL Ess}} Edwards recorded a career best 31 disposals, added seven score assists and kicked two goals in a performance that saw him receive the Yiooken Award as clear best on ground.{{cite news |last1=Collins |first1=Ben |title=Tigers dominate in Dreamtime |url=http://www.richmondfc.com.au/match-centre/2018/11/ess-v-rich |access-date=13 January 2019 |work=Richmond FC |publisher=Telstra Media |date=2 June 2018}} In doing so he became the first Indigenous player to win the award in its 13-year history.{{cite news |last1=Greenberg |first1=Tony |title=Edwards' Yiooken delight |url=http://www.richmondfc.com.au/news/2018-06-03/edwards-yiooken-delight |access-date=13 January 2019 |work=Richmond FC |publisher=Telstra Media |date=3 June 2018}} After that match Richmond head coach Damien Hardwick labelled Edwards one of the best players in the club's history, saying "he'll go down as one of the greats of our footy club".{{cite news |last1=Collins |first1=Ben |title=He's one of the greats of our club: Hardwick |url=http://www.afl.com.au/news/2018-06-02/hes-one-of-the-greats-of-our-club-hardwick |access-date=13 January 2019 |work=AFL Media |publisher=Telstra Media |date=2 June 2018}} The following week he added another two goals and was named by AFL Media as one of Richmond's best, this time in an away loss to {{AFL PA}}.{{cite news |last1=Gaskin |first1=Lee |title=Tigers fail to fire against Port |url=http://www.richmondfc.com.au/match-centre/2018/12/port-v-rich |access-date=13 January 2019 |work=Richmond FC |agency=AFL Media |publisher=Telstra Media |date=8 June 2018}} After 12 rounds, Edwards ranked 38th in the league under the AFL Player Ratings system, having ranked 101st at the same point of the year previous.{{cite news |last1=Cleary |first1=Mitch |title=Match preview: Geelong v Richmond |url=http://www.afl.com.au/news/2018-06-13/match-preview-geelong-v-richmond |access-date=14 June 2018 |work=AFL Media |publisher=Telstra Media |date=13 June 2018}} In round 16's win over {{AFL Ade}} he turned in another fantastic performance with 28 disposals and two goals that saw him split best on ground honours with teammate Kane Lambert according to the AFL Coaches association award voting.{{cite news |last1=Greenberg |first1=Tony |title=Top Tiger duo dominate voting |url=http://www.richmondfc.com.au/news/2018-07-10/top-tiger-duo-dominate-voting |access-date=13 January 2019 |work=Richmond FC |publisher=Telstra Media |date=10 July 2018}} His efforts in that match were ranked as the second best among all players in the league that round according to the AFL PLayer Ratings system.{{cite news |last1=Curley |first1=Adam |title=Match Preview: Round 17 v Richmond |url=http://www.gwsgiants.com.au/news/2018-07-12/match-preview-round-17-v-richmond |access-date=13 January 2019 |work=Giants Medi |agency=AFL Media |publisher=Telstra Media |date=12 July 2018}} That saw him continue to rise up the ratings system, to rank as the 24th best player overall in the league. Edwards was again named among Richmond's best in round 19, this time for a 22 disposal and one goal game against {{AFL Col}}.{{cite news |last1=Phelan |first1=Jennifer |title=Tigers outlast plucky Magpies |url=http://www.richmondfc.com.au/match-centre/2018/19/rich-v-coll |access-date=13 January 2019 |work=Richmond FC |agency=AFL Media |publisher=Telstra Media |date=28 July 2018}} After round 20, Edwards was ranked by Champion Data as the league's 11th best player so far that season, despite having been ranked the 104th best on a two-year basis as recently as round 15.{{cite news |last1=Morris |first1=Tom |title=AFL 2018 Richmond v Geelong: Shane Edwards one of the AFL's most undersold stars |url=https://www.foxsports.com.au/afl/afl-2018-richmond-v-geelong-shane-edwards-one-of-the-afls-most-undersold-stars/news-story/5c342a5e8cf4920f13ba9a3a90955599 |access-date=28 January 2019 |work=Fox Sports |publisher=News Corp Australia |date=3 August 2018}}{{cite news |last1=Collins |first1=Ben |title=Some big mids on the skids. Who's slipped down the order? |url=https://www.afl.com.au/news/2018-12-14/some-big-mids-on-the-skids-whos-slipped-down-the-order |access-date=10 September 2019 |work=AFL Media |publisher=Telstra Media |date=14 December 2018}} He also held the fifth-best kicking efficiency among midfielders and ranked number one overall for metres gained by handball with 1290 metres, close to double the second-placed Adam Treloar (735 metres). Edwards finished the home and away season having played in all of Richmond's 22 matches for the first time since 2014. At season's end Edwards was selected to a bench spot on the 2018 All-Australian team.{{cite news |title=Andrew Gaff selected for All-Australian team despite missing end of season through suspension |url=https://www.abc.net.au/news/2018-08-30/lance-franklin-named-captain-of-the-all-australian-team/10180288 |access-date=28 January 2019 |work=ABC News |agency=AAP |publisher=Australian Broadcasting Corporation |date=30 August 2018}}{{cite news |last1=Greenberg |first1=Tony |title=Tigers' All Australian awesome foursome |url=http://www.richmondfc.com.au/news/2018-08-29/tigers-all-australian-awesome-foursome |access-date=28 January 2019 |work=Richmond FC |publisher=Telstra Media |date=29 August 2018}} He was also named at half-forward in the AFL's Player Ratings team of the year and was one of three Richmond players nominated for the AFL Players Association's Most Valuable Player award.{{cite tweet |author=AFL Player Ratings |user=AFLPlayerRating |number=1034308727250149376 |date=28 August 2018 |title=Official AFL Player Ratings 2018 Team of the Year |access-date=28 August 2018 }}{{cite news |title=Tiger trio nominated for AFLPA MVP |url=http://www.richmondfc.com.au/news/2018-08-24/tiger-trio-nominated-for-aflpa-mvp |access-date=26 August 2018 |work=Richmond FC |publisher=Telstra Media |date=24 August 2018}} Edwards contributed a goal and 14 disposals in Richmond's qualifying final win over {{AFL Haw}} in the finals series' opening week before adding 14 disposals in the club's season-ending shock preliminary final loss to {{AFL Col}}. Following the conclusion of the 2018 finals series, Edwards was named by the Herald Sun's chief football writer Mark Robinson as the league's 47th best player during the 2018 season.{{cite news |last1=Robinson |first1=Mark |title=Mark Robinson names his top 50 AFL players following the 2018 season |url=https://www.heraldsun.com.au/sport/afl/more-news/mark-robinson-names-his-top-50-afl-players-following-the-2018-season/news-story/366dd8ff170d7775876240d2365a7001 |access-date=13 October 2018 |work=Herald Sun |publisher=News Corp Australia |date=10 October 2018}} He finished the year ranked second in the league for goals assists (31) and 18th for score involvements (152) and placed fourth in Richmond's best and fairest award.{{cite news |last1=Greenberg |first1=Tony |title=Who will take Jack home? |url=http://www.richmondfc.com.au/news/2018-09-27/who-will-take-jack-home |access-date=28 January 2019 |work=Richmond FC |publisher=Telstra Media |date=27 September 2018}}{{cite news |last1=Greenberg |first1=Tony |title=Dusty a stats standout |url=http://www.richmondfc.com.au/news/2018-09-29/dusty-a-stats-standout |access-date=28 January 2019 |work=Richmond FC |publisher=Telstra Media |date=29 September 2018}}{{cite news |last1=Sewell |first1=Eliza |title=Richmond spearhead Jack Riewoldt adds second Jack Dyer Medal to bulging trophy cabinet |url=https://www.heraldsun.com.au/sport/afl/more-news/richmond-spearhead-jack-riewoldt-adds-second-jack-dyer-medal-to-bulging-trophy-cabinet/news-story/85ddbc51dc89a8b63adb21d9a2f3ef1e |access-date=28 January 2019 |work=Herald Sun |publisher=News Corp Australia |date=2 October 2018}}
=2019 season=
File:Shane Edwards handballs (1) 25.05.19.jpg
Ahead of the 2019 season, Edwards was named by Champion Data as the league's best midfielder/forward and the 17th best player overall under the AFL's Player Ratings System.{{cite news |title=Dusty tops AFL Player Ratings |url=http://www.richmondfc.com.au/news/2018-12-11/dusty-tops-afl-player-ratings |access-date=28 January 2019 |work=Richmond FC |publisher=Telstra Media |date=11 December 2018}} Edwards started the 2019 season with appearances in each of the club's two pre-season matches before recording 22 disposals in round 1's season-opening match against {{AFL Car}}.{{cite news |last1=Collins |first1=Ben |title=Tigers find top gear to topple Dees after slow start |url=https://www.afl.com.au/match-centre/jlt-community-series/2019/1/rich-v-melb |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181104005501/http://www.afl.com.au/match-centre/jlt-community-series/2019/1/rich-v-melb |url-status=dead |archive-date=4 November 2018 |access-date=10 September 2019 |work=AFL Media |publisher=Telstra Media |date=3 March 2019}}{{cite news |last1=Guthrie |first1=Ben |title=Slow-starting Tigers find top gear to down Hawks |url=https://www.afl.com.au/match-centre/jlt-community-series/2019/2/haw-v-rich |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181105131315/http://www.afl.com.au/match-centre/jlt-community-series/2019/2/haw-v-rich |url-status=dead |archive-date=5 November 2018 |access-date=10 September 2019 |work=AFL Media |publisher=Telstra Media |date=9 March 2019}} He kicked two goals in round 2 and also received a $2000 fine for striking {{AFL Col}}'s Adam Treloar in that loss.{{cite news |title=Two Tigers charged by MRO |url=https://www.richmondfc.com.au/news/2019-03-29/round-2-mro-findings |access-date=10 September 2019 |work=Richmond FC |publisher=Telstra Media |date=29 March 2019}}{{cite news |last1=Beveridge |first1=Riley |title=Cox off to Tribunal to fight ban, Tiger cops his whack |url=https://www.afl.com.au/news/2019-04-01/cox-off-to-tribunal-to-fight-ban-tiger-cops-his-whack |access-date=10 September 2019 |work=AFL Media |publisher=Telstra Media |date=1 April 2019}} Following injuries to captain Trent Cotchin and vice-captains Jack Riewoldt and Alex Rance, Edwards was appointed to captain Richmond for the first time in round 4.{{cite news |last1=Ryan |first1=Peter |title=Richmond embrace challenge of playing without stars |url=https://www.theage.com.au/sport/afl/richmond-embrace-challenge-of-playing-without-stars-20190411-p51d3r.html |access-date=10 September 2019 |work=The Age |publisher=Fairfax Media |date=11 April 2019}}{{cite news |last1=Greenberg |first1=Tony |title=Edwards enters elite group |url=https://www.richmondfc.com.au/news/2019-04-11/edwards-enters-elite-group |access-date=10 September 2019 |work=Richmond FC |publisher=Telstra Media |date=12 April 2019}} He led the side to an improbable win in that match against {{AFL PA}}, despite the absence of those leaders as well as Brownlow Medalist Dustin Martin.{{cite news |last1=Harrington |first1=Anna |title=Richmond stand up without their big four to seal stunning win over Port Adelaide |url=https://www.foxsports.com.au/afl/live-afl-round-4-2019-port-adelaide-vs-richmond/news-story/284bed596e9127883427590271f45099 |access-date=10 September 2019 |work=Fox Sports |publisher=News Corp Australia |date=13 April 2019}} Edwards shifted into a half-back role for the win, recording 23 disposals and 11 intercepts while earning four AFL Coaches Association votes as the third best player on the ground.{{cite news |last1=Greenberg |first1=Tony |title=Skipper Shane set tone for Tigers |url=https://www.richmondfc.com.au/news/2019-04-14/skipper-shane-set-tone-for-tigers |access-date=10 September 2019 |work=Richmond FC |publisher=Telstra Media |date=14 April 2019}}{{cite news |title=Coaches' votes, R4: Dog surges clear, 10 for seven-goal Don |url=https://www.afl.com.au/news/2019-04-15/aflca-votes-round-four-dog-surges-clear-10-for-sevengoal-don |access-date=10 September 2019 |work=AFL Media |publisher=Telstra Media |date=15 April 2019}} He continued in his role at half-back and as acting captain the following week, this time collecting 28 disposals, six coaches votes and earning a place in AFL Media's Team of the Week.{{cite news |last1=Greenberg |first1=Tony |title=Dominant Dusty |url=https://www.richmondfc.com.au/news/2019-04-23/dominant-dusty |access-date=10 September 2019 |work=Richmond FC |publisher=Telstra Media |date=23 April 2019}}{{cite news |last1=Navaratnam |first1=Dinny |title=Team of the Week, R5: Who makes the cut? |url=https://www.afl.com.au/news/2019-04-23/team-of-the-week-r5-who-makes-the-cut |access-date=10 September 2019 |work=AFL Media |publisher=Telstra Media |date=23 April 2019}} Edwards relinquished the captaincy to the returning Riewoldt in round 6, before a new injury to the forward forced Edwards to again captain the side in round 7.{{cite news |last1=Ryan |first1=Peter |title=Jack Riewoldt set to return on Anzac Eve as Richmond hits top gear |url=https://www.theage.com.au/sport/afl/jack-riewoldt-set-to-return-on-anzac-eve-as-richmond-hits-top-gear-20190420-p51fw4.html |access-date=10 September 2019 |work=The Age |publisher=Fairfax Media |date=20 April 2019}} Two weeks later he earned seven coaches award votes for 26 disposals, eight intercepts and eight score involvements in a win over {{AFL Haw}}.{{cite news |last1=Greenberg |first1=Tony |title=Vintage Dusty |url=https://www.richmondfc.com.au/news/2019-05-21/vintage-dusty |access-date=10 September 2019 |work=Richmond FC |publisher=Telstra Media |date=21 May 2019}} Seven more coaches votes followed in round 10's Dreamtime at the 'G win, Edwards' last as Richmond captain which brought his record in the role to six wins and one loss.{{cite news |last1=Greenberg |first1=Tony |title=Houli's perfect Dreamtime |url=https://www.richmondfc.com.au/news/2019-05-28/houlis-perfect-dreamtime |access-date=10 September 2019 |work=Richmond FC |publisher=Telstra Media |date=28 May 2019}}{{cite news |last1=Greenberg |first1=Tony |title=Edwards energised by Tigers' youth |url=https://www.richmondfc.com.au/news/2019-05-27/edwards-energised-by-tigers-youth |work=Richmond FC |publisher=Telstra Media |date=27 May 2019}} Edwards was a gameday omission in round 13, with hamstring tendonitis forcing him to miss his first match through injury since round 7, 2017.{{cite news |last1=Ryan |first1=Peter |title=Martin skipper as Cotchin and Edwards to miss crucial clash with Crows |url=https://www.theage.com.au/sport/afl/cotchin-to-miss-crucial-clash-with-crows-20190612-p51wv9.html |access-date=10 September 2019 |work=The Age |publisher=Fairfax Media |date=12 June 2019}}{{cite news |last1=Black |first1=Sarah |title=UPDATE: Tigers' injury-cursed year continues with star pair to miss |url=https://www.afl.com.au/news/2019-06-12/richmonds-injurycursed-year-continues-star-tiger-to-miss-again |access-date=10 September 2019 |work=AFL Media |publisher=Telstra Media |date=12 June 2019}}{{cite news |title=Round 15 injury update |url=https://www.richmondfc.com.au/news/2019-06-25/round-15-injury-update |access-date=10 September 2019 |work=Richmond FC |publisher=Telstra Media |date=25 June 2019}} He returned after missing one match and following the club's mid-season bye, having been named by AFL Media during that time as a mid-season contender for a second straight All-Australian selection.{{cite news |title=Your club's mid-season All Australians: Who makes the cut? |url=https://www.afl.com.au/news/2019-06-26/your-clubs-midseason-all-australians-who-makes-the-cut |access-date=10 September 2019 |work=AFL Media |publisher=Telstra Media |date=26 June 2019}}{{cite news |last1=King |first1=Travis |title=TEAMS: Tigers bring in seven, Saints swing the axe |url=https://www.afl.com.au/news/2019-06-28/teams-sundays-sides-for-r15-revealed |access-date=10 September 2019 |work=AFL Media |publisher=Telstra Media |date=28 June 2019}} Edwards returned to a role through the midfield and half-forward for round 16's win over {{AFL GC}}, collecting 25 disposals and four inside-50s.{{cite news |last1=Greenberg |first1=Tony |title='Shedda' showcases playmaking prowess |url=https://www.richmondfc.com.au/news/2019-07-08/shedda-showcases-playmaking-prowess |access-date=21 November 2019 |work=RIchmond FC |publisher=Telstra Media |date=8 July 2019}} Barring one match against {{AFL PA}} in round 18 where he played in defence, Edward remained in the midfield and forward lines for the later part of the season, including in round 20 when he collected an equal career-best 31 disposals while playing as an inside midfielder.{{cite news |last1=Collins |first1=Ben |title=Tigers close in on top-four finish after rolling Dees in the wet |url=https://www.afl.com.au/news/2019-08-03/match-report-melbourne-v-richmond |access-date=21 November 2019 |work=AFL Media |publisher=Telstra Media |date=4 August 2019}}{{cite news |last1=Robinson |first1=Mark |title=The Tackle: Mark Robinson's likes and dislikes from Round 20 |url=https://www.heraldsun.com.au/sport/the-tackle-mark-robinsons-likes-and-dislikes-from-round-20/news-story/d7b58490d0617df98e883105219bda10 |access-date=21 November 2019 |work=Herald Sun |publisher=News Corp Australia |date=5 August 2019}} In round 21 he became the 250th player in AFL/VFL history to reach 250 games and the 15th player to reach the same milestone in matches for Richmond.{{cite news |last1=Greenberg |first1=Tony |title=Edwards enters elite company |url=https://www.richmondfc.com.au/news/2019-08-08/edwards-enters-elite-company |access-date=21 November 2019 |work=Richmond FC |publisher=Telstra Media |date=9 August 2019}} He was among Richmond's best players in that match, recording 27 disposals and a goal to earn six votes in the coaches association award.{{cite news |last1=Black |first1=Sarah |title=Tigers back inside top four after scrappy win over Blues |url=https://www.afl.com.au/news/2019-08-11/match-report-richmond-v-carlton |access-date=21 November 2019 |work=AFL Media |publisher=Telstra Media |date=11 August 2019}}{{cite news |title=Coaches' votes, R21: Dockers superstar reels in top Dog |url=https://www.afl.com.au/news/2019-08-12/coaches-votes-r21-dockers-superstar-reels-in-top-dog |access-date=21 November 2019 |work=AFL Media |publisher=Telstra Media |date=12 August 2019}} Edwards improved that mark the following week, earning eight votes as the second best on ground for a performance that included a goal, 29 disposals and a career-best 11 clearances.{{cite news |title=Coaches' votes, R22: Perfect 10s for star mids, big Roo |url=https://www.afl.com.au/news/2019-08-27/coaches-votes-r22-perfect-10s-for-star-mids-big-roo |access-date=21 November 2019 |work=AFL Media |publisher=Telstra Media |date=27 August 2019}} In that match he also passed Australian Football Hall of Fame Legend Kevin Sheedy for the most games played in the number 10 guernsey by any player at Richmond.{{cite news |last1=Greenberg |first1=Tony |title='Shedda' shades 'Sheeds' |url=https://www.richmondfc.com.au/news/2019-08-30/shedda-shades-sheeds |access-date=21 November 2019 |work=Richmond FC |publisher=Telstra Media |date=30 August 2019}} At the end of the home and away season Edwards was named in the AFL's Player Ratings team of the year and in the best 22 in Fox Footy football reporter Tom Morris' team of the year.{{cite news |last1=Morris |first1=Tom |title=AFL All-Australian 2019: Gary Ablett a lock, Patrick Cripps captain in Tom Morris' best 22 of 2019 |url=https://www.foxsports.com.au/afl/afl-allaustralian-2019-gary-ablett-a-lock-patrick-cripps-captain-in-tom-morris-best-22-of-2019/news-story/212c1c43186588f9a764a526d2b652c8 |access-date=26 August 2019 |work=Fox Sports |publisher=News Corp Australia |date=26 August 2019}}{{cite tweet |author=AFL Player Ratings |user=AFLPlayerRating |number=1167240518901719047 |date=30 August 2019 |title=2019 Official AFL Player Ratings Team of the Year |access-date=8 September 2019 }} Despite that, he was left out of the squad of 40 players for the All-Australian team and was recognised by Fox Footy as one of the league's most glaring omissions.{{cite news |last1=Gabelich |first1=Josh |title=AFL 2019: Star Docker Bradley Hill leads 2019 All-Australian snubs |url=https://www.foxsports.com.au/afl/afl-2019-star-docker-bradley-hill-leads-2019-allaustralian-snubs/news-story/a20c0ba9f587dcc7522598fb727d8f55 |access-date=26 August 2019 |work=Fox Sports |publisher=News Corp Australia |date=26 August 2019}} Edwards was one of the best players on field during his side's road qualifying final win over the {{AFL BL}}, kicking a goal and collecting eight clearances, 18 contested possessions and 29 disposals including 13 in the decisive third quarter.{{cite news |last1=Whiting |first1=Michael |title=Lions learn there is no substitute for finals experience |url=https://www.afl.com.au/news/131161/analysis-brisbane-v-richmond |access-date=12 January 2020 |work=AFL Media |publisher=Telstra Media |date=8 September 2019}}{{cite news |last1=Greenberg |first1=Tony |title=Edwards' exceptional exhibition |url=https://www.richmondfc.com.au/news/45657/edwards-exceptional-exhibition |access-date=12 January 2020 |work=Richmond FC |publisher=Telstra Media |date=8 September 2019}} He received nine coaches votes for the performance as equal-best on ground.{{cite news |title=AFLCA Gary Ayres Award: Early lead for Eagles goalkicker, young Giant |url=https://www.afl.com.au/news/96061/aflca-gary-ayres-award-early-lead-for-eagles-goalkicker-young-giant- |access-date=12 January 2020 |work=AFL Media |publisher=Telstra Media |date=9 September 2019}} Edwards was somewhat quieter in the preliminary final a fortnight later, finishing with 18 possessions and a goal assist as his side defeated {{AFL Gee}} and earned a grand final berth against {{AFL GWS}}.{{cite news |last1=Gaskin |first1=Lee |title=Every Tiger rated from the preliminary final |url=https://www.afl.com.au/news/82696/every-tiger-rated-from-the-preliminary-final |access-date=12 January 2020 |work=AFL Media |publisher=Telstra Media |date=21 September 2019}} He turned in what AFL Media described as "another excellent performance" in the grand final, collecting 21 disposals, six tackles and six clearances as Richmond defeated the Giants by 89 points to win a second premiership in three seasons.{{cite news |last1=Whiting |first1=Michael |title=Player ratings: Every Tiger rated from the Grand Final |url=https://www.afl.com.au/news/93053/player-ratings-every-tiger-rated-from-the-grand-final |access-date=12 January 2020 |work=AFL Media |publisher=Telstra Media |date=28 September 2019}} Though he did not receive a vote in the official Norm Smith Medal count for best afield, Edwards was named the third best player of the game by the AFL's statistical Official Player Ratings{{cite news |title=Toby Greene faceplants, feared tagger gets negative score: Every Grand Final player rated 1 to 44 |url=https://www.foxsports.com.au/afl/afl-grand-final-2019-every-player-rated-afl-player-ratings-every-grand-final-player-rated-best-and-worst-players-on-ground/news-story/f2e5746c6311dd54c026355ab6695e65 |access-date=12 January 2020 |work=Fox Sports |publisher=News Corp Australia |date=28 September 2019}} At the conclusion of the finals he ranked as the league's best general defender by Champion Data, despite his use across multiple positions that season.{{cite news |last1=Robinson |first1=Mark |title=Mark Robinson names his top 50 players after the 2019 AFL season |url=https://www.heraldsun.com.au/sport/afl/expert-opinion/mark-robinson/mark-robinson-names-his-top-50-players-after-the-2019-afl-season/news-story/facdffd985d70ddc1ee95957e878f6db |access-date=15 October 2019 |work=Herald Sun |publisher=News Corp Australia |date=15 October 2019}} He led Richmond for contested possessions, stoppage clearances and tackles during the three finals that year and finished the whole year ranked third at the club for total contested possessions and clearances.{{cite news |last1=Greenberg |first1=Tony |title=Tiger September stats stars |url=https://www.richmondfc.com.au/news/139776/tiger-september-stats-stars |access-date=12 January 2020 |work=Richmond FC |publisher=Telstra Media |date=8 October 2019}}{{cite news |last1=Greenberg |first1=Tony |title=Premiership Tigers' statistical summary: Shane Edwards |url=https://www.richmondfc.com.au/news/211308/premiership-tigers-statistical-summary-shane-edwards |access-date=12 April 2020 |work=Richmond FC |publisher=Telstra Media |date=11 November 2019}} Edwards placed second in the club's best and fairest count, a career-best placing that saw him awarded him the Jack Titus Medal.{{cite news |last1=Greenberg |first1=Tony |title=Prestia captures Jack Dyer Medal |url=https://www.richmondfc.com.au/news/79437/prestia-captures-jack-dyer-medal |access-date=12 January 2020 |work=Richmond FC |publisher=Telstra Media |date=1 October 2019}}{{cite news |last1=Cherny |first1=Daniel |title=Hard-Prest: Midfielder takes out Tigers best and fairest |url=https://www.theage.com.au/sport/afl/hard-prest-midfielder-takes-out-tigers-best-and-fairest-20191001-p52wok.html |access-date=12 January 2020 |work=The Age |publisher=Nine Entertainment Co |date=1 October 2019}} He was also named as the league's 26th best player in the Herald Sun chief football reporter Mark Robinson's list of the league's best players in 2019.
=2020 season=
File:Shane Edwards kicks (2) 28.02.20.jpg
Over the 2019/20 off-season, Edwards was rated by AFL statistics partner Champion Data in the top-tier "elite" category among midfielder-forwards.{{cite news |last1=Cavanagh |first1=Chris |title=Richmond premiership forward Tom Lynch rated an 'average' player by Champion Data |url=https://www.heraldsun.com.au/sport/afl/teams/richmond/richmond-premiership-forward-tom-lynch-rated-an-average-player-by-champion-data/news-story/613adf81da5be1a061e9e7d567cd41d5 |access-date=5 August 2020 |work=Herald Sun |publisher=News Corp Australia |date=13 February 2020}} He played his first match for the year in the AFL's fundraising State of Origin for Bushfire Relief Match in February, representing his home state of South Australia as part of the allied All-Stars side.{{cite news |title=Six Tigers named in State of Origin squads |url=https://www.richmondfc.com.au/news/564946/six-tigers-named-in-state-of-origin-squads |access-date=12 April 2020 |work=Richmond FC |publisher=Telstra Media |date=18 February 2020}}{{cite news |last1=MacFarlane |first1=Glenn |title=Bachar Houli will live out a childhood dream by donning the Big V, and he wants future stars to get the same opportunity |url=https://www.heraldsun.com.au/sport/afl/more-news/bachar-houli-will-live-out-a-childhood-dream-by-donning-the-big-v-and-he-wants-future-stars-to-get-the-same-opportunity/news-story/bb40483003b9342113e9ac155c332546 |access-date=12 April 2020 |work=Herald Sun |publisher=News Corp Australia |date=18 February 2020}}{{cite news |last1=McMurty |first1=Andrew |title=AFL State of Origin Bushfire Appeal 2020 |url=https://www.news.com.au/sport/afl/afl-state-of-origin-bushfire-appeal-2020-victoria-vs-allstars-at-marvel-stadium/live-coverage/49a653a8ec05217263c3600e8775b2db |access-date=12 April 2020 |work=News.com.au |publisher=News Corp Australia |date=29 February 2020}} He sat out {{AFL Ric}}'s first pre-season match that same weekend but returned for the club's final pre-season match against {{AFL GWS}} a week later.{{cite news |last1=Collins |first1=Ben |title=Tigers go down to Pies |url=https://www.richmondfc.com.au/news/570460/tigers-go-down-to-pies |access-date=12 April 2020 |work=Richmond FC |publisher=Telstra Media |date=1 March 2020}}{{cite news |last1=Curley |first1=Adam |title=Toby turns it on as Giants, Tigers turn up the heat |url=https://www.afl.com.au/news/382939/giants-get-a-little-bit-of-grand-final-revenge |access-date=12 April 2020 |work=AFL Media |publisher=Telstra Media |date=8 March 2020}} Despite an uninterrupted pre-season, the rapid progression of the coronavirus pandemic into Australia by mid-March saw the future of the season in doubt, including Edwards and {{AFL Ric}}'s premiership defence.{{cite news |last1=Barrett |first1=Damien |title=Why coronavirus could force the AFL to play games without fans |url=https://www.afl.com.au/news/384419/why-coronavirus-could-force-the-afl-to-play-games-without-fans |access-date=12 April 2020 |work=AFL Media |publisher=Telstra Media |date=10 March 2019}}{{cite news |author=David Mark |author2=James Coventry |name-list-style=amp|title=AFL looking at cramming matches in case coronavirus outbreak postpones 2020 season |url=https://www.abc.net.au/news/2020-03-14/coronavirus-afl-looking-at-drastic-changes-to-premiership-season/12056848 |access-date=12 April 2020 |work=ABC News |publisher=Australian Broadcasting Corporation |date=14 March 2020}} The AFL commission eventually announced the start of the season would proceed as scheduled, but without fans in attendance due to public health prohibitions on group gatherings.{{cite news |last1=Barrett |first1=Damien |title=Coronavirus crisis: AFL makes call on round one |url=https://www.afl.com.au/news/384878/coronavirus-crisis-afl-makes-call-on-round-one |access-date=12 April 2020 |work=AFL Media |publisher=Telstra Media |date=13 March 2020}}{{cite news |title=AFL to go ahead with round one of men's 2020 season amid coronavirus pandemic |url=https://www.abc.net.au/news/2020-03-18/coronavirus-afl-round-one-announcement/12066394 |access-date=12 April 2020 |work=ABC News |publisher=Australian Broadcasting Corporation |date=19 March 2020}} With the expectation that a significant break would be necessary mid-season, the league also announced the season would be completed with a modified 17-round fixture and with quarter lengths reduced by one fifth to reduce the load on players who would be expected to play multiple matches with short breaks in the back half of the year.{{cite news |title=Coronavirus crisis and footy: The state of play |url=https://www.afl.com.au/news/384862/coronavirus-crisis-and-footy-the-state-of-play |access-date=12 April 2020 |work=AFL Media |publisher=Telstra Media |date=20 March 2020}} Edwards kicked the opening goal of the season and was named by AFL Media among Richmond's best players under those conditions in round 1's win over {{AFL Car}}.{{cite news |last1=Beveridge |first1=Riley |title=Fast-starting Tigers shake off brave Blues in eerie opener |url=https://www.afl.com.au/news/386977/fast-starting-tigers-shake-off-brave-blues-in-eerie-opener |access-date=12 April 2020 |work=AFL Media |publisher=Telstra Media |date=19 March 2020}}{{cite news |title=Mixed messages the last thing we need in a time of crisis |url=https://www.theage.com.au/national/victoria/mixed-messages-the-last-thing-we-need-in-a-time-of-crisis-20200323-p54cx4.html |access-date=12 April 2020 |work=The Age |publisher=Nine Entertainment Co |date=23 March 2020}} Just three days later however, the AFL commission suspended the season after multiple states enforced quarantine conditions on their borders that effectively ruled out the possibility of continuing the season as planned.{{cite news |last1=Barrett |first1=Damien |title='Most serious threat in 100 years': AFL postpones season |url=https://www.afl.com.au/news/389109/-most-serious-threat-in-100-years-afl-postpones-season |access-date=12 April 2020 |work=AFL Media |publisher=Telstra Media |date=22 March 2020}}{{cite news |title=AFL suspends season in response to coronavirus, with AFLW season cancelled — but NRL plays on for now |url=https://www.abc.net.au/news/2020-03-22/coronavirus-afl-suspends-season-aflw-cancelled-nrl-plays-on/12079476 |access-date=12 April 2020 |work=ABC News |publisher=Australian Broadcasting Corporation |date=23 March 2020}} Edwards recorded 13 disposals in a draw with {{AFL Col}} when the season resumed in early June after an 11-week hiatus, and was among his side's best players with 24 disposals and a goal in a loss to {{AFL StK}} a fortnight after that.{{cite news |last1=Beveridge |first1=Riley |title=Slick Saints run reigning premiers off their feet |url=https://www.afl.com.au/matches/2034#match-report |access-date=1 July 2020 |work=AFL Media |publisher=Telstra Media |date=27 June 2020}}{{cite news |title=AFL 2020 season will restart on June 11 following coronavirus shutdown |url=https://www.abc.net.au/news/2020-05-15/coronavirus-afl-2020-season-restart-on-june-11/12243778 |access-date=1 July 2020 |work=ABC News |publisher=Australian Broadcasting Corporation |date=15 May 2020}} He played one further match before a virus outbreak in Melbourne caused the club to relocate to the Gold Coast.{{cite news |last1=Beveridge |first1=Riley |title=UPDATE: Injury, family ties could rule out seven Tigers for R6 |url=https://www.afl.com.au/news/461857/update-injury-family-ties-could-rule-out-seven-tigers-for-r6 |access-date=5 August 2020 |work=AFL Media |publisher=Telstra Media |date=5 July 2020}} With a heavily pregnant partner, Edwards elected to remain in Melbourne where he trained with other non-travelling clubmates while awaiting the birth of his baby daughter in August.{{cite news |last1=McGowan |first1=Marc |title=Tigers skipper, wrecking ball back but defender suffers setback |url=https://www.afl.com.au/news/477037/tigers-skipper-wrecking-ball-back-but-defender-suffers-setback |access-date=5 August 2020 |work=Richmond FC |publisher=Telstra Media |date=28 July 2020}}{{cite news |author=Jon Ralph |author2=Nathan Schmook |author3=Michael Randall |author4=Lauren Wood |author5=Glenn McFarlane |name-list-style=amp|title=AFL 2020: All the latest Injury news for Round 8 |url=https://www.heraldsun.com.au/sport/afl/more-news/afl-2020-all-the-latest-injury-news-for-round-8/news-story/d70bcb5474d30686861d1be4ba8eea41 |access-date=5 August 2020 |work=Herald Sun |publisher=News Corp Australia |date=27 July 2020}} Following the birth, Edwards entered Queensland quarantine in September as a member of the AFL's final travelling party of the year.{{cite news |author=Lauren Wood |author2=Russell Gould |name-list-style=amp|title=Trent Cotchin applauded for his decision to remain in Tigers hub after COVID breach drama |url=https://www.heraldsun.com.au/sport/afl/teams/richmond/trent-cotchin-applauded-for-his-decision-to-remain-in-tigers-hub-after-covid-breach-drama/news-story/979b9f4c95d59014db806a51b4e3357e |access-date=9 November 2020 |work=Herald Sun |publisher=News Corp Australia |date=1 September 2020}}{{cite news |last1=Cleary |first1=Mitch |title=Ablett, flag Tiger out until R18 after early Qld dash denied |url=https://www.afl.com.au/news/488475/ablett-flag-tiger-out-until-r18-after-early-qld-dash-denied |access-date=9 November 2020 |work=AFL Media |publisher=Telstra Media |date=21 August 2020}} He trained there for a two-week period alongside Gary Ablett Jr. and Dan Hannebery before immediately earning selection in Richmond's regular-season-ending round 18 win over {{AFL Ade}}.{{cite news |last1=Wade |first1=Nick |title=AFL quarantine hub: Gary Ablett, Shane Edwards train together in Gold Coast transition hub |url=https://www.heraldsun.com.au/sport/afl/afl-quarantine-hub-gary-ablett-shane-edwards-train-together-in-gold-coast-transition-hub/news-story/40c012303df09467620464f5d9fef12e |access-date=9 November 2020 |work=Herald Sun |publisher=News Corp Australia |date=4 September 2020}}{{cite news |last1=Niall |first1=Jake |title=Edwards enjoys 'surreal' training session with Geelong rival Ablett |url=https://www.theage.com.au/sport/afl/edwards-enjoys-surreal-training-session-with-geelong-rival-ablett-20200904-p55sjv.html |access-date=9 November 2020 |work=The Age |publisher=Nine Entertainment Co |date=4 September 2020}}{{cite news |last1=Twomey |first1=Callum |title=Premiership Tigers set to return, star on track for first final |url=https://www.afl.com.au/news/507596/premiership-pair-set-to-return-for-tigers-stars-on-track-for-first-final |access-date=9 November 2020 |work=AFL Media |publisher=Telstra Media |date=17 September 2020}}{{cite news |last1=Spiteri |first1=Tate |title=Four changes for Adelaide clash |url=https://www.richmondfc.com.au/news/814862/four-changes-for-adelaide-clash |access-date=9 November 2020 |work=Richmond FC |publisher=Telstra Media |date=18 September 2020}} Edwards was best on ground in that win, earning nine coaches award votes for a performance that included four score involvements and a game-high eight clearances.{{cite news |last1=Greenberg |first1=Tony |title=Edwards' excellent return |url=https://www.richmondfc.com.au/news/816215/edwards-excellent-return |access-date=9 November 2020 |work=Richmond FC |publisher=Telstra Media |date=20 September 2020}}{{cite news |title=Coaches' votes, R18: Lion crowned champion, Demon steals second place |url=https://www.afl.com.au/news/510820/coaches-votes-r18-lion-crowned-champion-demon-steals-second-place |access-date=9 November 2020 |work=AFL Media |publisher=Telstra Media |date=24 September 2020}} After a quiet showing in a qualifying final loss to the {{AFL BL}} to open the finals series, Edwards was back to his match-winning best with 21 disposals, five clearances and two goals in a semi-final win over {{AFL StK}} one week later.{{cite news |last1=Zita |first1=David |title=Tigers Player Ratings: Dusty starts strongly but fades fast, teammates follow suit |url=https://www.foxsports.com.au/afl/afl-finals-2020-richmond-player-ratings-vs-brisbane-lions-second-qualifying-final-reviews-stats-tigers-best-and-worst-players/news-story/156df1b76297836ac1f12af8237ff86c |access-date=9 November 2020 |work=Fox Sports |publisher=News Corp Australia |date=2 October 2020}}{{cite news |last1=Greenberg |first1=Tony |title=Shedda's superb semi-final showing |url=https://www.richmondfc.com.au/news/824656/shedda-s-superb-semi-final-showing |access-date=9 November 2020 |work=Richmond FC |publisher=Telstra Media |date=10 October 2020}}{{cite news |last1=Whiting |first1=Michael |title=Next stop, prelim: Tiger train back on track as Saints' yips return |url=https://www.afl.com.au/news/515854/next-stop-prelim-tiger-train-back-on-track-as-saints-yips-return |access-date=9 November 2020 |work=AFL Media |publisher=Telstra Media |date=9 October 2020}} Fox Footy labeled his output 'crucial' in the six-point preliminary final win over {{AFL PA}} that followed, despite recording a season-low 11 disposals.{{cite news |last1=Zita |first1=David |title=Tigers player ratings: One Tiger stood tall over the rest... and it wasn't Dusty |url=https://www.foxsports.com.au/afl/afl-finals-2020-richmond-player-ratings-vs-port-adelaide-first-preliminary-final-reviews-stats-best-and-worst-players/news-story/5a240d072bb6873234eb176397899eaf |access-date=9 November 2020 |work=Fox Sports |publisher=News Corp Australia |date=16 October 2020}} He became a three-time premiership played the following week, helping his side to a 31-point grand final victory over {{AFL Gee}}.{{cite news |last1=Beveridge |first1=Riley |title=Three pre-seasons, a baby and a flag: Tiger champ's 'far out' year |url=https://www.afl.com.au/news/522515/three-pre-seasons-a-baby-and-a-flag-tiger-champ-s-far-out-year |access-date=9 November 2020 |work=AFL Media |publisher=Telstra Media |date=25 October 2020}}{{cite news |last1=McFarlane |first1=Glenn |title=Back-to-back: Richmond defeats Geelong to win the 2020 AFL Grand Final |url=https://www.heraldsun.com.au/sport/afl/backtoback-richmond-defeats-geelong-to-win-the-2020-afl-grand-final/news-story/4b9f8d216f088066f0b121a6318fc1ef |access-date=9 November 2020 |work=Herald Sun |publisher=News Corp Australia |date=25 September 2020}} Edwards placed third in the Norm Smith Medal voting for his excellent performance in the win, after recording a game-high nine clearances and a personal season-best 27 disposals.{{cite news |last1=Schmook |first1=Nathan |title=Dusty's legend grows with historic third Norm Smith Medal |url=https://www.afl.com.au/news/521179/dusty-s-legend-grows-with-historic-third-norm-smith-medal |access-date=9 November 2020 |work=AFL Media |publisher=Telstra Media |date=24 October 2020}}{{cite news |last1=Black |first1=Sarah |title=Tigers Player Ratings: No passengers on the Tiger train |url=https://www.afl.com.au/news/521174/tigers-player-ratings-no-passengers-on-the-tiger-train |access-date=9 November 2020 |work=AFL Media |publisher=Telstra Media |date=24 October 2020}} He also secured equal-fifth place in the Gary Ayres Award for the finals series best player.{{cite news |title=Perfect Dusty lands third Gary Ayres Award |url=https://www.richmondfc.com.au/news/831601/ |access-date=9 November 2020 |work=Richmond FC |agency=AFL Media |publisher=Telstra Media |date=26 October 2020}}
=2021 season=
Edwards entered the 2021 season ranked in the 'elite' category among the league's midfielder-forwards by the AFL's official statistical partner Champion Data.{{cite news |last1=Williams |first1=Rebecca |title=Champion Data reveals every AFL club's elite-ranked players entering season 2021 |url=https://www.heraldsun.com.au/sport/afl/champion-data-reveals-every-afl-clubs-eliteranked-players-entering-season-2021/news-story/d91ff931e35a1c993ae5ecdb07eb8407 |access-date=19 July 2021 |work=Herald Sun |publisher=News Corp Australia |date=7 February 2021}} He played in Richmond's one unofficial and one official pre-season match in late-February and early-March before recording 27 disposals and eight score involvements in the club's round 1 win over {{AFL Car}}.{{cite news |last1=Greenberg |first1=Tony |title=No rest for vintage Edwards |url=https://www.richmondfc.com.au/news/870888/no-rest-for-vintage-edwards |access-date=19 July 2021 |work=Richmond FC |publisher=Telstra Media |date=2 March 2021}}{{cite news |last1=Twomey |first1=Callum |title=Big Max dominates, fringe forward fires, Dusty finishes early |url=https://www.afl.com.au/news/553122/dees-tigers |access-date=19 July 2021 |work=AFL Media |publisher=Telstra Media |date=26 February 2021}}{{cite news |last1=Colangelo |first1=Anthony |title=Kelly breaks collarbone, Sidebottom calf complaint from Pies’ pre-season loss to Richmond |url=https://www.theage.com.au/sport/afl/sidebottom-kelly-early-casualties-in-pies-pre-season-clash-20210305-p578av.html |access-date=19 July 2021 |work=The Age |publisher=Nine Entertainment Co |date=5 March 2021}}{{cite news |last1=Greenberg |first1=Tony |title=Brereton's bold ‘Shedda’ prediction |url=https://www.richmondfc.com.au/news/888000/breretons-bold-shedda-prediction |access-date=19 July 2021 |work=Richmond FC |publisher=Telstra Media |date=25 March 2021}} In round 3 he played his 268th career game, tying Chris Newman to move into 10th place on the Richmond club leaderboard.{{cite news |last1=Slevison |first1=Andrew |title=WHY EDWARDS FEELS EMBARRASSED TO JOIN ILLUSTRIOUS RICHMOND LIST |url=https://www.sen.com.au/news/2021/04/01/why-edwards-feels-embarrassed-to-join-illustrious-richmond-list/ |access-date=19 July 2021 |work=1116SEN |publisher=Sports Entertainment Group |date=1 April 2021}} Edwards was equal-second best on ground two weeks later, attracting five coaches votes for a performance that included 29 disposals, seven clearances and a goal.{{cite news |last1=Greenberg |first1=Tony |title=‘Nank’ tops Tigers coaches’ votes |url=https://www.richmondfc.com.au/news/916147/nank-tops-tigers-coaches-votes |access-date=19 July 2021 |work=Richmond FC |publisher=Telstra Media |date=19 April 2021}} He was again impressive in round 8, being named among his side's best players by AFL Media in a loss to {{AFL Gee}} despite being substituted out of the game in the second half as a result of an ankle injury.{{cite news |last1=Ronny Lerner and Jasper Bruce |title=Hardwick says Geelong are the best team Richmond has faced this year |url=https://www.heraldsun.com.au/sport/afl/edwards-in-doubt-for-gws-clash-as-hardwick-makes-huge-postgame-call/news-story/19e3239ee8a4a6b461043c19f54e1bfc |access-date=19 July 2021 |work=Herald Sun |publisher=News Corp Australia |date=8 May 2021}}{{cite news |last1=Beveridge |first1=Riley |title=Tigers no match for Cats on a disappointing night |url=https://www.richmondfc.com.au/news/930302/tigers-no-match-for-cats-on-a-disappointing-night |access-date=19 July 2021 |work=Richmond FC |agency=AFL Media |publisher=Telstra Media |date=8 May 2021}}{{cite news |last1=Ryan |first1=Peter |title=Tigers midfielder injured, Cats ‘the best side we have played all year’ |url=https://www.theage.com.au/sport/afl/tigers-midfielder-injured-cats-the-best-side-we-have-played-all-year-20210507-p57q10.html |access-date=19 July 2021 |work=The Age |publisher=Nine Entertainment Co |date=8 May 2021}} The injury was later revealed to be a deltoid ligament injury, and treatment saw him ruled out from playing over the next three weeks.{{cite news |title=Injury Report: Round 9, 2021 |url=https://www.richmondfc.com.au/news/933559/injury-report-round-9-2021 |work=Richmond FC |publisher=Telstra Media |date=11 May 2021}}{{cite news |title=Injury Report: Round 11, 2021 |url=https://www.richmondfc.com.au/news/944639/injury-report-round-11-2021 |access-date=19 July 2021 |work=Richmond FC |publisher=Telstra Media |date=25 May 2021}} He initially completed injury rehabilitation in Melbourne despite the playing side being relocated out of the state temporarily as a result of a COVID-19 outbreak in Melbourne, before joining his teammates in time to play in the club's round 12 Dreamtime in Perth match against {{AFL Ess}}.{{cite news |last1=Cherny |first1=Daniel |title=Richmond Indigenous star back for Dreamtime game in Perth |url=https://www.theage.com.au/sport/afl/hawks-back-in-melbourne-but-dogs-off-to-sydney-20210530-p57weo.html |access-date=19 July 2021 |work=The Age |publisher=Nine Entertainment Co |date=30 May 2021}}{{cite news |last1=Black |first1=Sarah |title=Tigers fly up star mid ahead of huge Bombers clash |url=https://www.afl.com.au/news/623319/tigers-fly-up-star-mid-ahead-of-huge-bombers-clash |access-date=19 July 2021 |work=AFL Media |publisher=Telstra Media |date=30 May 2021}}{{cite news |title=Tigers welcome back gun mid for Dreamtime clash, weigh up ruck options |url=https://www.afl.com.au/news/625121/richmond-tigers-welcome-back-gun-midfielder-shane-edwards-weigh-up-ruck-options |access-date=19 July 2021 |work=AFL Media |agency=AAP |publisher=Telstra Media |date=3 June 2021}} He did so in a guernsey he helped to design and which partly told the story of his Indigenous heritage.{{cite news |last1=Gould |first1=Russell |title=Richmond could turn to rookie big man Samson Ryan for Saturday's Dreamtime game in Perth |url=https://www.heraldsun.com.au/sport/afl/richmond-could-turn-to-rookie-big-man-samson-ryan-for-saturdays-dreamtime-game-in-perth/news-story/3df5b83a7af2dd826cb0b36763dd79ac |access-date=19 July 2021 |work=Herald Sun |publisher=News Corp Australia |date=3 June 2021}}
Player profile
Edwards is a versatile player, playing the early part of his career as a forward but featuring in three Richmond premiership sides as an inside midfielder. In 2018 he earned All-Australian selection while being rated the second best midfielder-forward in the league by Champion Data and while he led the league for goal assists.{{cite news |title=THE NUMBERS BEHIND EDWARDS' ALL-AUSTRALIAN SELECTION |url=https://www.sen.com.au/news/2018/08/30/the-numbers-behind-edwards'-all-australian-selection/ |access-date=21 November 2019 |work=1116 SEN |publisher=Croc Media |date=30 August 2019}}{{cite news |last1=Cavanagh |first1=Chris |title=Shane Edwards is more than happy to keep flying under the radar with the Tigers |url=https://www.heraldsun.com.au/sport/afl/teams/richmond/shane-edwards-is-more-than-happy-to-keep-flying-under-the-radar-with-the-tigers/news-story/da9d7dfc173870fd6d64ea9e4c83dcc9 |access-date=21 November 2019 |work=Herald Sun |publisher=News Corp Australia |date=2 June 2018}} He is among the most damaging handballers in the game, having led the league for metres gained by handball in 2018.{{cite news |last1=McGowan |first1=Marc |title=The Richmond stat: Number that defines Tigers |url=https://www.afl.com.au/news/2018-09-20/the-richmond-stat-number-that-defines-tigers |access-date=21 November 2019 |work=AFL Media |publisher=Telstra Media |date=20 September 2019}}{{cite news |last1=Morris |first1=Tom |title=AFL 2018 Richmond v Geelong: Shane Edwards one of the AFL's most undersold stars |url=https://www.foxsports.com.au/afl/afl-2018-richmond-v-geelong-shane-edwards-one-of-the-afls-most-undersold-stars/news-story/5c342a5e8cf4920f13ba9a3a90955599 |access-date=21 November 2019 |work=Fox Sports |publisher=News Corp Australia |date=3 August 2019}} In 2019, teammate Jack Riewoldt called Edwards the best handballer he had ever seen.{{cite news |last1=McFarlane |first1=Glenn |title=How a recruiting overrule left the door ajar for Richmond to lock in Shane Edwards |url=https://www.heraldsun.com.au/sport/afl/teams/richmond/how-a-recruiting-overrule-left-the-door-ajar-for-richmond-to-lock-in-shane-edwards/news-story/6d15332fd635d8ab5a86d4193cdf7b5f |access-date=21 November 2019 |work=Herald Sun |publisher=News Corp Australia |date=11 August 2019}} In 2019 injuries to many of Richmond's key players saw Edwards used as a half-back for the first time in his career, before return to various midfield and forward roles for the second half of that season.
In 2020, the Herald Sun labelled Edwards the eighth best Richmond player of the AFL era.{{cite news |last1=Warner |first1=Michael |title=Michael Warner ranks Richmond's top-20 players of the modern era, from 1987 to now |url=https://www.heraldsun.com.au/sport/afl/teams/richmond/michael-warner-ranks-richmonds-top20-players-of-the-modern-era-from-1987-to-now/news-story/10a6fdbf67172e06d73f881a0bc56c29 |access-date=1 July 2020 |work=Herald Sun |publisher=News Corp Australia |date=5 April 2020}}
Edwards has played more games for Richmond than any other Indigenous player in club history.
Statistics
: Statistics are correct to the end of round 22, 2022{{cite web|title=Shane Edwards |url=http://afltables.com/afl/stats/players/S/Shane_Edwards.html|publisher=AFL Tables|access-date=21 February 2017}}
{{AFL player statistics legend|p=y}}
{{AFL player statistics start with votes}}
|-
| 2007 || {{AFL Ric}} || 10
| 16 || 11 || 7 || 88 || 77 || 165 || 55 || 35|| 0.7 || 0.4 || 5.5 || 4.8 || 10.3 || 3.4 || 2.2 || 0
|-
| 2008 || {{AFL Ric}} || 10
| 16 || 12 || 11 || 82 || 103 || 185 || 46 || 30 || 0.8 || 0.7 || 5.1 || 6.4 || 11.6 || 2.9 || 1.9 || 1
|-
| 2009 || {{AFL Ric}} || 10
| 15 || 5 || 3 || 87 || 102 || 189 || 35 || 30 || 0.3 || 0.2 || 5.8 || 6.8 || 12.6 || 2.3 || 2.0 || 0
|-
| 2010 || {{AFL Ric}} || 10
| 22 || 7 || 8 || 218 || 196 || 414 || 61 || 76 || 0.3 || 0.4 || 9.9 || 8.9 || 18.8 || 2.8 || 3.5 || 0
|-
| 2011 || {{AFL Ric}} || 10
| 20 || 4 || 12 || 156 || 157 || 313 || 66 || 58 || 0.2 || 0.6 || 7.8 || 7.9 || 15.7 || 3.3 || 2.9 || 0
|-
| 2012 || {{AFL Ric}} || 10
| 20 || 29 || 26 || 167 || 188 || 355 || 49 || 56 || 1.5 || 1.3 || 8.4 || 9.4 || 17.8 || 2.5 || 2.8 || 2
|-
| 2013 || {{AFL Ric}} || 10
| 20 || 11 || 12 || 178 || 186 || 364 || 43 || 71 || 0.6 || 0.6 || 8.9 || 9.3 || 18.2 || 2.2 || 3.6 || 0
|-
| 2014 || {{AFL Ric}} || 10
| 23 || 22 || 16 || 192 || 214 || 406 || 54 || 75 || 1.0 || 0.7 || 8.3 || 9.3 || 17.7 || 2.3 || 3.1 || 0
|-
| 2015 || {{AFL Ric}} || 10
| 16 || 13 || 9 || 152 || 148 || 300 || 44 || 56 || 0.8 || 0.6 || 9.5 || 9.3 || 18.8 || 2.8 || 3.5 || 6
|-
| 2016 || {{AFL Ric}} || 10
| 19 || 15 || 12 || 166 || 189 || 355 || 43 || 55 || 0.8 || 0.6 || 8.7 || 9.9 || 18.7 || 2.3 || 2.9 || 0
|-
| scope=row bgcolor=F0E68C | 2017#
|style="text-align:center;"|{{AFL Ric}}
| 10 || 20 || 11 || 16 || 154 || 199 || 353 || 55 || 58 || 0.6 || 0.8 || 7.7 || 10.0 || 17.7 || 2.8 || 2.9 || 0
|-
| 2018 || {{AFL Ric}} || 10
| 24 || 14 || 8 || 190 || 272 || 462 || 51 || 68 || 0.6 || 0.3 || 7.9 || 11.3 || 19.3 || 2.1 || 2.8 || 7
|-
| scope=row bgcolor=F0E68C | 2019#
|style="text-align:center;"|{{AFL Ric}}
| 10 || 24 || 7 || 2 || 239 || 287 || 526 || 79 || 75 || 0.3 || 0.1 || 10.0 || 12.0 || 21.9 || 3.3 || 3.1 || 0
|-
| scope=row bgcolor=F0E68C | 2020#{{efn|The 2020 season was played with 17 home-and-away matches per team (down from 22) and 16-minute quarters with time on (down from 20-minute quarters with time on) due to the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.}}
|style="text-align:center;"|{{AFL Ric}}
| 10 || 10 || 5 || 1 || 78 || 94 || 172 || 10 || 27 || 0.5 || 0.1 || 7.8 || 9.4 || 17.2 || 1.0 || 2.7 || 1
|-
| 2021 || {{AFL Ric}} || 10
| 16 || 8 || 3 || 149 || 145 || 294 || 47 || 36 || 0.5 || 0.2 || 9.3 || 9.1 || 18.4 || 2.9 || 2.3 || 0
|-
| 2022 || {{AFL Ric}} || 10
| 21 || 15 || 8 || 151 || 134 || 285 || 51 || 31 || 0.7 || 0.4 || 7.2 || 6.4 || 13.6 || 2.4 || 1.5 || 0
|- class="sortbottom"
! colspan=3| Career
! 302
! 189
! 154
! 2447
! 2691
! 5138
! 789
! 837
! 0.6
! 0.5
! 8.1
! 8.9
! 17.0
! 2.6
! 2.8
! 17
|}
Notes
{{Notelist}}
Honours and achievements
Team
- 3× AFL premiership player ({{AFL Ric}}): 2017, 2019, 2020
- McClelland Trophy ({{AFL Ric}}): 2018
Individual
- All-Australian team: 2018
- Jack Titus Medal (2nd RFC B&F): 2019
- 2× Fred Swift Medal (4th RFC B&F): 2014, 2018
- Yiooken Award: 2018
Personal life
His father Greg Edwards was a talented footballer with Central Districts in the SANFL. He holds the club record as the first and only player to kick 100 goals in a season (1982). His career was ended at the age of 20 when an injury left him blind in his left eye.{{cite news|title=Draft flashbacks: Shane Edward|url=http://www.richmondfc.com.au/news/2015-11-13/draft-flashbacks-shane-edwards|access-date=19 July 2017|work=Richmond FC|publisher=Telstra Media|date=13 November 2015}} His brother Kym played with North Adelaide in the SANFL.
Edwards' paternal grandfather Doug played West Torrens and North Adelaide while his uncle Russell was also a SANFL player for {{AFL PA}}.
Outside of playing, Edwards has worked as a part-time scout for Richmond, learning the role alongside the club's other recruiters at NAB League matches since 2018.{{cite news |last1=de Haer |first1=Katie |title=Q&A — SHANE EDWARDS |url=http://www.aflplayers.com.au/article/qa-shane-edwards/ |access-date=10 September 2019 |work=AFL Player |publisher=AFL Players Association |date=12 April 2019}}{{cite news |last1=Black |first1=Sarah |title='There was possum poo on the floor': Tiger reflects on the road to 250 |url=https://www.afl.com.au/news/2019-08-11/there-was-possum-poo-on-the-floor-tiger-reflects-on-the-road-to-250 |access-date=21 November 2019 |work=AFL Media |publisher=Telstra Media |date=11 August 2019}}
His maternal grandmother is from the Arunta people from central Australia and was raised on a mission in Mount Gambier, whilst his maternal grandfather is German.{{cite news|url=http://www.theage.com.au/afl/afl-news/living-the-dream-20120518-1yw32.html|title=Living the Dream|access-date=19 July 2017|work=The Age|publisher=Fairfax Media|date=19 May 2012|first=Caroline |last=Wilson}}{{cite news |last1=Gleeson |first1=Michael |title=‘I almost felt like I wasn't Indigenous enough’: Tiger star's personal journey |url=https://www.theage.com.au/sport/afl/i-almost-felt-like-i-wasn-t-indigenous-enough-tiger-star-s-personal-journey-20210602-p57xhr.html |access-date=19 July 2021 |work=The Age |publisher=Nine Entertainment Co |date=5 June 2021}}
Edwards has two children with partner Samantha Erichsdotter, a girl born in August 2020 and another girl born August 2024.{{cite news |last1=Walsh |first1=Courtney |title=A special touch from the Tigers had Shane Edwards dreaming of flag success |url=https://www.theaustralian.com.au/sport/afl/a-special-touch-from-the-tigers-had-shane-edwards-dreaming-of-flag-success/news-story/9cfb1e7cb6605784a3d77fb08469f525 |access-date=9 November 2020 |work=The Australian |publisher=News Corp Australia |date=29 September 2020}}
References
{{Reflist|30em}}
External links
{{Commons category}}
- {{Richplayer}}
- {{AFL Tables|ref=S/Shane_Edwards.html}}
- [http://www.footywire.com/afl/footy/pp-richmond-tigers--shane-edwards Shane Edwards's statistics] from Footy Wire
{{2017 Richmond premiership players}}
{{2019 Richmond premiership players}}
{{2020 Richmond premiership players}}
{{2018 All-Australian team}}
{{2020 All Stars players}}
{{2015 Indigenous All-Stars squad}}
{{2006 AFL national draft}}
{{Yiooken Award}}
{{DEFAULTSORT:Edwards, Shane}}
Category:Richmond Football Club players
Category:Richmond Football Club premiership players
Category:North Adelaide Football Club players
Category:Indigenous Australian players of Australian rules football
Category:21st-century Indigenous Australian people
Category:Australian rules footballers from Adelaide
Category:Australian people of German descent
Category:All-Australians (AFL)