Returning to where his AFL career began, retired AFL great Shaun Burgoyne is set to take on a multi-faceted off-field role at Port Adelaide Football Club in season 2022.
Burgoyne’s new role will involve player development and mentoring, corporate and government relations and working within the club’s Aboriginal Programs.
He recently informed seven clubs that were seeking his services and the AFL that he accepted the position at Alberton.
The proud Kokatha-Warai man was raised between Adelaide and Port Lincoln on South Australia’s West Coast and said he was happy to be going home with his wife Amy who was also from Adelaide.
“I grew up at Port Adelaide, progressed from Mallee Park in Port Lincoln through the juniors with the Magpies at SANFL level and was fortunate enough to win an AFL Premiership for Port Adelaide, so this club means a lot to me, and also to my family,” said Burgoyne in a statement.
“The club is in a great position both on and off the field.
Shaun Burgoyne of the Hawks walks off with his family after the AFL Round 16 match between Hawks and Power at Marvel Stadium, Saturday, July 3, 2021. Source: AAP
“It is stable, has great leadership and has a playing list that will ensure sustained success for many years to come.
“It is clear that the club is totally united and I can’t wait to be part of it.”
Throughout his career, Burgoyne played 407 AFL games, the third most games by any player.
He also won four premierships with one at the Power and three during his playing time at the Hawks.
Port Adelaide chief executive Matthew Richardson said the club was delighted to welcome Burgoyne and his family back to the club.
Shaun and brother Peter Burgoyne of the Power celebrate after winning the 2004 AFL Grand Final against the Brisbane Lions at the MCG. Source: Getty Images AsiaPac
“Part of his role will be in football operations where Shaun will assist with list management and provide mentoring and leadership for our entire playing group,” said Richardson in a statement.
“Through a community liaison role, Shaun will also play an important role with key stakeholders including club commercial partners and government relations.
“And we look forward to having Shaun as our Indigenous Liaison Officer and involved in our industry-leading Aboriginal Programs, including the Santos Aboriginal Power Cup.”
Burgoyne was drafted by Port Adelaide in the 2000 AFL draft where he played 157 games before a complex four-way deal that also included Geelong, Essendon, ended up seeing him traded to Waverley Park.
He will commence his new role at Port Adelaide on November 1.
