Collingwood Development Coach, Scott Selwood was announced as the winner of the sixth Phil Walsh Memorial Scholarship, at the AFL Coaches Association AGM in Melbourne on Wednesday.
Selwood, who is in his second year as a Development Coach at the Magpies, was awarded the scholarship based on his commitment to his career and personal development and on the job training. He has completed a Bachelor of Commerce from Curtin University and the AFLCA’s Next Coach Program, whilst currently studying a Masters of Sports Coaching at University of QLD and completing his Level 3 Coaching Accreditation.
Before joining the Pies in October 2019, Selwood spent twelve seasons playing at the West Coast Eagles and Geelong which included 169 games and winning the 2012 John Worsfold Medal at the Eagles. Selwood was coached by Phil Walsh for five years at West Coast, making this scholarship even more special.
The Phil Walsh Memorial Scholarship was created following his tragic death in July 2015. The winner receives a $10,000 prize, to help fund travel and study costs and follow the example Phil set during his coaching career.
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AFL Coaches Association CEO Mark Brayshaw reflected on the impact Phil Walsh made to football and coaching.
“Announcing each year’s winner of the Phil Walsh Memorial Scholarship is an important highlight in the Coaches Association’s annual calendar. Phil’s pathway to coaching the Crows was characterised by relentless curiosity, which included overseas travel and formal study. We are thrilled that Scott Selwood is this year’s winner and encourage him to do his best to emulate Phil’s example,” Brayshaw said.
Having witnessed Phil’s work first hand, Selwood was honoured to be accepting the Phil Walsh Memorial Scholarship.
“I’m really proud and honoured to receive the scholarship. I have been very fortunate as a player to be surrounded by a lot of great people and Phil was one of those. I was lucky enough to spend a number of years with Phil at West Coast and saw his drive and passion for the game. Phil was constantly trying to get the best out of himself to better those around him through travel, studying and learning off other great coaches in different sports, which is what I am looking forward to do with this scholarship. I am grateful for the Collingwood Football Club who are giving me the opportunity to follow my passion and to work, and learn from some great coaches,” Selwood said.
PREVIOUS WINNERS OF THE PHIL WALSH MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP:
2016 - Ben Rutten
2017 - Adrian Hickmott
2018 - Aaron Greaves
2019 - Damien Truslove
2020 – Luke Kelly
