250 RE ASONS T O KICK IT OFF WITH A LA UGH

IF personalities are supposed to be disappearing from the AFL, Heath Shaw didn’t read the memo.

Who else would start his 250game media conference by reading out a list of stats he thought would interest the assembled journos?

He started with the fact that 17 of the 33 games he’s missed since debut came through club and AFL suspensions and of his 3932 career kicks only 58 have been on his left foot.

“I’m 23rd all time for the most clangers with 686,” Shaw added.

“I’ve still got a few left in me. I’m second all time for bounces behind Boomer ( Harvey) – 839. 812 kick outs and 91 per cent of those I’ve kicked to myself and played on.”

Shaw can have a laugh and isn’t afraid to have one on himself.

“I’ve also been best on ground on Mad Monday four times out of 13,” Shaw added. “That’s a pretty good strike rate and that’s the one Leigh Meryck ( GWS media manager) didn’t want me to say.”

But behind the gags is a prodi- giously talented footballer who has found commitment and professionalism many thought he didn’t have.

Since arriving at the Giants in 2014 after nine years and 173 games at Collingwood he’s added another 76 games, won a Kevin Sheedy Medal and secured All Australian honours twice ( 2015- 16).

“It’s a massive achievement to get to 250,” Shaw said.

He may get to celebrate the milestone with Josh Kelly, who Leon Cameron thinks can play against Brisbane at the Gabba on Saturday.