Kevin Sheedy shares his thoughts on a Hobart stadium

AFL legend Kevin Sheedy has shared his thoughts on Tassie’s bid for an AFL side and the controversial Mac Point stadium plan. Find out what the legendary figure said here.

AFL legend Kevin Sheedy has shared his thoughts on Tassie’s bid for an AFL side and the controversial Mac Point stadium plan.

Speaking at a Property Council Christmas function at Crown Plaza on Friday, Sheedy made it clear he thought the stadium was a good idea.

When asked what would he “do if he had the keys to Tasmania?” He replied, “Build a stadium in Hobart.”

While the man who played and coached a total of 929 games over his 47-year career was confident it was the right move he said it was up to Tasmanians to make it happen.

“If you really want to get into the AFL it’s up to you people,” Sheedy said while gesturing at the 240 strong crowd.

“Your development here is very important for your state.”

Sheedy went on to tell the story about the NFL team the Green Bay Packers based in Wisconsin in the US.

AFL legend Kevin Sheedy. Picture: Alex Coppel.

Green Bay is a city smaller than Hobart that’s home to a national team that has won three Super Bowls with Sheedy saying there was no reason Tasmania, despite its size, couldn’t have the same success in the AFL.

“I’m not down here for a political headbutting affair,” Sheedy said.

“I have had enough of that over 55 years but if you want the team, it is up to you.”

Sheedy explained that the state and community needed to lead the way to ensure a franchise for Tasmania.

He said if it was up to him he would be selling Tasmanian AFL memberships right now, on a “first in best dressed” basis to build up a seed fund.

“You know you are not going to fit 500,000 Tasmanians in the stadium so start thinking financially now and show all governments Liberal, Labor … whatever you want, federal, state, the community is showing the way.”

Sheedy said Hobart should take inspiration from the Green Bay Packers.

Sheedy has spent most of his life helping fill stadiums as a player and a coach and said how great it was to see the MCG packed out during the T20 World Cup.

“It was great to see India play Pakistan and 90,0000 people there a week ago … yes or no?” “Yes,” came the response from the crowd.

“That’s what you are capable of if you build a great stadium,” Sheedy said “I think it’s going to be a sellout once you get the state government and federal government on board … so get your tickets now.”

Organiser of the event Rebecca Elston, executive director of the Property Council, said her organisation was in favour of the stadium.

“The Property Council strongly supports the large-scale development that a stadium and integrated arts and recreation precinct will bring to the Tasmanian economy,” Ms Elston said. “It’s not just a stadium, it is a development catalyst that opens up an entire generation of investment.”

Originally published as Kevin Sheedy shares his thoughts on a Hobart stadium