Rated amongst the Gold Coast SUNS best users of the football, Matt Shaw’s consistency made him one of the first players to be selected during match committee meeting in 2013.

During his most impressive season since entering the AFL, Shaw collected more than 20 possessions in nine of the nineteen premiership matches he contested, finishing with less than 15 disposals only twice.

A great run and carry player with explosive speed, finesse and composure, Shaw often flew under the radar, overlooked by rivals as they prepared to take on the SUNS.

It’s safe to say that after finishing the 2013 Premiership season with a 78% effective disposal efficiency, he’s a player sure to be closely watched in 2014. 

Despite being blessed with bundles of natural talent, it’s perhaps Shaw’s willingness to learn from his mistakes and from his team mates which have allowed him to emerge as a key of the SUNS playing list and become a better all-round player. 

''When I would have a bad game in my first year it would be really bad,'' Shaw told News Limited.

''But this year even if I have a bad game, I'm still competing and playing my role for the team.

“…You can start overthinking things too much and I did that in my first year up here. But now I'm just really relaxed and if I put in a bad effort I just forget about it and make sure the next one is better.''

GC SUNS assistant coach and midfield mentor Matthew Primus told goldcoastfc.com.au Shaw’s ability to work himself into the contest had improved significantly in 2013.

“Matty works very hard to stay in games, and doesn’t drop in and out of quarters,” he said.

“He became a great run and carry player for us and improved his ability to win his own ball.”

Primus congratulating Matt on becoming the second member of the club’s original draft class to reach the 50-game milestone, behind Trent McKenzie, saying it was testament to his durability.

“He played his 50^th match this year and was very durability for us.

“He found a fair bit of the footy this year and got around 20 touches per game, and no doubt as the team continues to improve his individual numbers will as well.”

Unfortunately illness cut Shaw’s 2013 campaign early when he was hospitalised and underwent surgery in Round 19 after suffering appendicitis. 

Subsequently, the Gold Coaster checked out of hospital considerably underweight, a matter Primus says Shaw will have to address over the break. 

 “He did get a bit crook at the end of the year and will have to put that weight back on,” Primus said.

“Like most of our team he will have to get stronger through the hips and core and add some more size to his frame.

“But we are pretty confident Matt will come back fit and ready for a strong pre-season.”