Sturt Football Club mourns the passing of long-serving Vice President and valued Club sponsor, Stuart Shaw, who passed away on Monday 16 February following a courageous battle with illness.
Stuart’s love for Sturt began as a young boy and remained a constant throughout his life. It was not simply that he supported the Club, he dedicated himself to preserving and strengthening it. His contribution spanned decades, roles, and generations of players.
A passionate custodian of our heritage, Stuart was an integral member of the Club’s History Group. He played a leading role in the research, writing and publication of We Are Sturt Vol. 1 and, earlier this year, proudly saw the release of We Are Sturt Vol. 2, which he co-authored with Ken Hughes. Volume 2, meticulously researched and compiled, stands as a testament to Stuart’s unwavering commitment to accuracy and detail, documenting every League player from 1945 through to 1989. His diligence ensured that each name, each record, and each story was treated with the respect it deserved.
Stuart understood that history is not static, it evolves. In recent years, he immersed himself in the Club’s women’s program, determined that its pioneers and players be recognised as an integral part of the Sturt story. Just one week prior to his passing, and despite being gravely ill, Stuart telephoned the Club to ensure we had copies of the women’s inaugural team records. Struggling to complete the conversation, his focus was not on himself, but on ensuring their place in our history was secure. That moment encapsulated the man, selfless, thorough, and utterly committed to Sturt.
Beyond his formal roles, Stuart was a constant and generous presence. He would regularly assist with match day set-up and pack-down and was often among the last to leave after Club events, quietly helping staff without expectation of recognition. He embodied the spirit of service.
Stuart Shaw was a true blue gentleman, thoughtful, passionate, and steadfast in his devotion to the Double Blues. His legacy is etched not only in the pages of our history books, but in the culture and fabric of our Club.
We extend our deepest condolences to his family and loved ones. Stuart will be greatly missed and always remembered.