Shane Harvey set to play on with North Heidelberg as he eyes milestone
North Heidelberg great Shane Harvey will return for 2021, exciting by the prospect of playing under Jason Heatley and eyeing a rare achievement in local footy history.
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Northern Football League goalkicking great Shane Harvey has confirmed he will play on in 2021 as he chases a magical milestone.
The North Heidelberg legend is just six majors shy of 1000 goals for his beloved Bulldogs.
The cancelled season has only increased his desire to lace up the boots again next year with the milestone so close.
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“I’m excited actually, I’ve been playing since I was four, so 33 years in a row but not this year,” Harvey said.
“It’s definitely sucked not being able to play, so I’m looking forward to getting back into it.
“I wouldn’t have liked to have finished up without getting that milestone.
“Hopefully I can get a couple of kicks next year and it comes to fruition.”
Harvey arrived at Shelley Park in 2008, making an immediate impact by booting 108 goals and winning the Rosbrook Medal in his first season.
The former Essendon and North Melbourne forward has kicked at least 100 goals in six of his 11 seasons with the Bulldogs, with a best of 123 in 2013, and 17 in a single game in 2017.
Including stints at Wakool and Barooga, Harvey is closing in on 1400 goals in his senior career.
His prowess in front of the big sticks has helped North Heidelberg to two Division 2 premierships and back-to-back Division 1 preliminary finals.
Individually, Harvey has claimed seven league goalkicking awards, five club best-and-fairests and a spot in the Team of the Year every season he’s played.
“I suppose we’ve got longevity in the family, obviously my brother playing for as long as he has and my dad still plays A Grade cricket in his 60s,” he said.
“It’s in the genes so that definitely helps.”
Jason Heatley, a two-time NFL Division 1 goalkicking award-winner himself, was set to take the Bulldogs’ coaching reins this season.
Having worked with him previously on interleague duties, Harvey was excited to see what the Northcote Park premiership coach could bring to the club.
“I was really looking forward to it this year but unfortunately we didn’t get the chance,” he said.
“I played under him in a rep game a couple of years ago and he was really impressive as a coach.
“I can’t wait until game day and see what he can deliver for us.”