ABOUT US
Our mission
Welcome to The Players Academy, we are so glad you’re here.
We can’t wait to guide you towards achieving your football goals… no matter how big.
With a shared passion for the great game of AFL; Shane and Ebony strive to deliver high level coaching designed to improve players’ individual and team performance. They understand that each player is different; which is why they will spend time getting to know you, your skill level, goals and playing style.
The personalised coaching programs from The Players Academy are tailored to challenge you while improving fitness, strength, knowledge and skills in all aspects of the game.
With over 30 years of combined experience in the coaching and football industry, you can rest assured you are in safe hands.
MEET THE TEAM
Shane Dawes
Head Coach, Player Mentor
Growing up in a country region outside of Frankston, Victoria; Shane Dawes has had his fair share of Aussie Rules.
In playing juniors from the young age of 7, he was an integral part of several teams as a ruckman and tall forward. Including recently in Queensland Masters teams at the National Carnival.
He has carried on his love of football into several high-level coaching endeavours; including The Brisbane Lions Academy, Coolum/Noosa teams and now the Senior Women’s at the Moreton Bay Lions.
With close to 20 years of coaching experience under his belt, and now with a Level 3 Coaching Accreditation behind him; Shane has an extensive amount of knowledge and experience in the AFL industry.
Shane’s love of the game truly shines through in his coaching; his passion unmatched in providing high quality guidance and mentoring to every player he works with.
Coaching History and Credentials:
Current: Head Coach
Senior Women’s Moreton Bay Lions AFC
2020-22: Head Coach (Sunshine Coast Region)
Brisbane Lions Academy Level 3 U19 Girls
2020-21: Head Coach
QAFL Colts Coolum/Noosa
2019: Youth Coach of the Year
AFL Sunshine Coast
Premiership Coach
Coolum Beach Breakers U16’s
2016: Youth Coach of the Year
AFL Sunshine Coast
2005-16: Various senior and youth teams throughout Victoria and Queensland
Ebony Otto
Coaching Assistant, Marketing and Customer Service
Ebony grew up on a cattle farm about 2 and a half hours west of Brisbane in Queensland. She was a very active and healthy child growing up, always outside kicking a ball with her family and trying her hand in anything and everything.
Through experience across many sporting codes including cricket, volleyball, soccer, running and softball; she has learnt the real meaning behind being part of a team, as well as the importance of developing strong individual skills.
She was first introduced to AFL through a book series at school called ‘Specky Magee’. Otto was hooked and as soon as she was old enough, tried out for her local representative team. She has gone on to play in several teams including the Queensland State team, Sunshine Coast Storm and Brisbane Lions Academy.
Now playing in the QAFLW with the Maroochydore Roos, her determination and drive to improve has splayed into wanting to help others succeed.
Our Partners
Our Partners
We have partnered with Harry from HDPT to offer our athletes sports-specific gym training alongside our sessions. If you are interested in getting strength coaching or programs please reach out to Harry for more information!