Shannon Rusca facts for kids

Shannon Rusca is a former professional Australian rules football player from Australia. He played for teams like the Brisbane Lions and the Western Bulldogs during his career.

Shannon Rusca's Early Life

Shannon Rusca started playing Australian Football when he was young. He played for a team called Southern Districts in the Northern Territory Football League. This was his first step into senior, or adult, football.

Playing in the AFL

Joining the Brisbane Lions

In 2000, Shannon Rusca was added to the "rookie list" for the Brisbane Lions. Being on the rookie list means a player is training with the main team, hoping to get a chance to play. Shannon did get that chance! He was moved up to the main team during the 2000 season. He played in two official matches for the Lions that year.

Time with the Western Bulldogs

After playing for the Brisbane Lions, Shannon Rusca moved to another team. He was "traded" to the Western Bulldogs in exchange for a draft pick in 2001. A draft pick is like a special ticket that allows a team to choose a new player. Even though he joined the Bulldogs, Shannon did not play any senior matches for them.

After His AFL Career

After leaving the AFL, Shannon Rusca continued to play Australian rules football. He played for the Northern Territory Thunder in the Queensland AFL. He also returned to play for his original team, Southern Districts, in the NTFL.

Shannon Rusca even became a playing coach for Southern Districts. This means he coached the team while also playing in matches during the 2008/2009 NTFL season.