Dawe bids farewell

Norwood Triple Premiership Player Brady Dawe will bid farewell to football after 10 seasons in red and blue at seasons end.

Dawe made his debut for the Redlegs in round 2, 2009, and it was ironically against Sturt. After playing under 19 football at the Double Blues, he was told he was not required and returned to his junior club Meadows.

Former Redlegs star Brett James, then coach of Kersbrook, recommended Dawe try his luck at The Parade after a game against Meadows in the Hills league.

After ten games in 2009, Dawe’s rise was profound. Dawe’s biggest strength to date has been his durability – he played 24 games in his second season and as the years have passed has only missed a handful of matches.

He played 196 games over the following nine seasons and emerged to become one of the competition’s premier forward/ruckman.

In that time, he played a vital role for the Redlegs in the 2012, 13 and 14 Premierships and developed himself a selfless leader who would do whatever he could for his team.

In Round 9 this year, Dawe became the 16th Redleg to play 200 games.

Dawe admits it was truly emotional telling his teammates and coaches that he would not be playing on in 2020.

“It was definitely a bit emotional when I told the fellas the other night,” Dawe said.

“It just all comes to an end and it feels like I only just started.

“It’s been 10 years now, and I have loved every second I’ve spent at the football club.

“For me, I think it’s the right time to hang up the boots, relax and focus on other parts of life.”

On reflection, Dawe’s best memories from his time at Norwood were the three Premierships, as well as the relationships he has made with teammates, coaches and staff.

“The three winning Premierships are certainly up there as some of my favourite memories playing at Norwood,” Dawe said.

“Probably the last one against Port Adelaide is the pick of the bunch, playing at Adelaide Oval in front of 38,000 people and winning was truly amazing.

“Over the years I have probably taken for granted how you get to run around and hang around with your mates every couple of days.

“I’ll definitely miss that, but am forever indebted to the club, as it’s given me the chance to create so many friendships.

“I would personally like to thank the Norwood Football Club, family, friends and supporters who have helped and supported me over my career.”

Norwood coach Jarrod Cotton said Dawe left his mark at Norwood and described him as a team man through and through.

“I think team man is the perfect way to describe Brady,” Cotton said.

“He plays his role every week and probably doesn’t get a lot of the praise which others do; however, he is held in such high regard around this place.

“As a player, he plays his role whether it’s up forward or in the ruck and does everything he possibly can to be the best player he can be and best person.

“Overall Brady has had a fantastic career, 200 games and a Triple Premiership Player – he will be regarded as one of the best of the football club.”

The Norwood Football Club would like to thank Brady for his service to the club and wishes him, and Siobahn all the best for the next stage of their life.

Exclusive to norwoodfc.com.au