CHAMPION PERTH DEFENDER DIES AT 98

Syd Shaw, who established himself as one of the State’s best defenders in the immediate post World War II years, has died, aged 98. Syd suffered a heart attack on August 7 after being admitted to hospital with a broken hip following  a fall at home. 

Syd was one of many champion players whose league careers were delayed by the war. He made his debut with Perth on his return from military service in Europe in 1945, and quickly stamped himself as an outstanding defender.

Syd, who was born on 22 December, 1922 was a Victoria Park boy through and through, and there was never any doubt he would play senior football with the Redlegs, as Perth was known at the time.  

His opponents in school games included many others who would also make their mark in the game, such as future team mates Ern Henfry and Ron Tucker.

Syd enlisted in 1940, and fought at El Alamein in North Africa where he was captured in 1942. He was transferred to a POW camp in Italy, "cleared out" with 13 Australians when the Italians surrendered to the British, and made his way on foot over the Alps to Switzerland. He was back in Perth by late 1944, ready for the 1945 season.

He didn't miss a match for two seasons and was selected as full-back in WA's 1947 Hobart carnival team captained by Perth team mate Merv McIntosh.

There was another interruption in 1948 when the Army transferred him to country Victoria. He won the fairest and best award in the Mornington League, and came up against a lively young forward he would meet again when back in the WA side for the 1950 carnival. By then the forward was making his mark for both Essendon and Victoria. He was John Coleman.

Syd played many fine games for Perth at both full back and centre half back, including in the grand final sides in 1949 and 1950. But injury forced him to retire during the 1953 season, aged 30. By then he had notched 150 league games.

Syd was awarded Life Membership in 1966.

The Perth Football Club extends its sincere sympathy to Syd’s family. He served both his country, and our club, with great distinction.

• PETER KENNEDY