Dave Sheldon

Dave Sheldon had his first taste of football with the North Clare junior colts in 1971 progressing through to the North Clare under 14s and under 16s. He made his A grade debut for North Clare as a 15 year old playing as back up ruckman to man mountain Wayne Ottens, brother of Dean.

During his first season of A grade, Dave impressed in an under 16 inter league match and was recruited by Central Districts. After initially playing under age football with the Bulldogs, Dave made his league debut in 1978 and went on to play 6 league and 39 reserves games in his three years at Centrals. He then played out his career with Pooraka where he captained the Bulls to the 1984 SAFA premiership.

Dave played with many great footballers during his brief time at North Clare and believes many could have made it at a higher level but for their farming commitments. Brendan Smart was his coach at North Clare and he learned a great deal from him.

In 2008, Dave transferred in his employment to Ceduna and was persuaded to briefly come out of retirement. He turned out for the Ceduna Blues and played six B grade games as a lead ruckman before realising the beach was more preferable on a Saturday afternoon than a football oval.