Richmond midfielder Shane Edwards is upbeat about Richmond’s chances in the Dreamtime at the ‘G clash this Saturday night, despite the Tigers’ recent form in the annual showpiece game.
Speaking to the media at the MCG on Tuesday afternoon, Edwards said a win would mean a lot for the team, both sentimentally, and in terms of its season.
“It’d be huge to win it. We haven’t won it in a while now and Essendon are always a quality side, so it’s a good test to see where we are in terms of the competition. But also to keep up our own form,” he said.
Get your tickets for the Round 9 Dreamtime at the 'G blockbuster against Essendon
“We want to continue the form that we’ve got, but we’re not looking any further than the first quarter.”
Edwards was quick to reinforce the magnitude of the game and the significant role it plays in recognising the contribution of Indigenous players in the AFL.
“Dreamtime is pretty important. It’s a huge event, so it promotes a lot of awareness, and awareness leads to education,” he said.
“That’s what we want. More education for the Indigenous culture and the Indigenous history.”
Check out the week of Dreamtime related activities, including match-day
As a youngster, Edwards looked up to a number of Indigenous players, including Hawthorn midfielder Shaun Burgoyne.
“Coming from Adelaide…he was always one of the best players in the competition, and still is. I’ve tried to model my game on his, but it is hard because he is so bloody good,” he said.
Edwards also has a personal connection to this weekend’s clash, via Richmond’s specially-designed Dreamtime guernsey, which was designed by his cousin, Derek Summerfield.
“He’s only 14 years old, so he is pretty talented. We only had three to pick from at the start of the year, and not knowing where he was from or who made it, I picked this one and by chance it was him. I’m really proud,” he said.
