The Saints will welcome the Bulldogs for their first home game of the season on Good Friday, with the club set to host a sportsman’s night after the match which Shaw and former AFL agent Ricky Nixon will attend.
Saints coach Will Martiniello said Shaw’s arrival would have Benalla Showgrounds bouncing for the club’s round two clash.
“It’s good for the town, it’s good for the club, hopefully it draws a big crowd, we’re doing a sportsman’s night after the game which will hopefully get some people down to the club and upstairs after it as well,” Martiniello said.
“There’s obviously his on-field side of it too, with his leadership and experience which will be very helpful for our younger players, I know a lot of people are looking forward to playing alongside him.
“I know he’s still playing in EDFL as well, so I know he’ll give 100 per cent as always on ground.”
The stage will be set for a scintillating Good Friday clash, with the Saints back at home for what could shape up to be a massive fixture in the scheme of their season.
“It’s a big game for us against Tatura, hopefully first home game of the year we can draw a big crowd, have a good win and then celebrate that night,” Martiniello said.
“Good Friday as well, in the past when we’ve had Good Friday games they’ve drawn big crowds, we’re hoping for that again, and I know there’s plenty of Collingwood supporters around town, so hopefully they’ll pop by and have a watch.
“It’s something the club hasn’t really done in the past, we’re at a stage where we’ve got to try some new things, hopefully it’ll attract some people down to the club and helps us on and off the field.”
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