Heath Shaw's Betting Brain Fade | Thebigtip

It was only under a year ago that Collingwood defender Heath Shaw received his premiership medallion in a team of what can truly be described as champions. Ever since that day in October last year, the Magpies have been touted as the best chance to go back-to-back with Shaw dominating off the half back line as he does so regularly.

However, Shaw's defensive dominance has been shown a big red stop sign after being caught on CCTV placing bets at a TAB venue.

Shaw, who has been caught betting on Collingwood's clash with the Magpies earlier in the season at Etihad Stadium, will be suspended for eight AFL matches as well as serving a 14-week ban with a nice $20,000 fine acting as the cherry on top.

You would think that the last thing an AFL player, especially one of Heath Shaw's status, would be worried about is making money. It's baffling to find out that the bet, which was placed on captain Nick Maxwell to kick the first goal, was only to the value of $10 (it was a shared bet, coming to a total of $20).

The rules on gambling for players, coaches and officials on AFL games are simple - just don't. What then ticked in Heath Shaw's mind that made him think this was a smart idea? Surely he was aware that he would be caught placing bets and has made himself look like a real moron in doing so.

Not only has Shaw made a fool of himself, he has kicked the shins of a club that is currently steamrolling the competition.

The scandal couldn't come at a worse time for Collingwood who, coming off a 117-point belting in a game in which Heath Shaw tallied 25 disposals, six tackles and a goal, face Carlton in a defining game on Saturday afternoon. The last thing the club would want is negative press going into one of the biggest clashes of the year.

Congratulations Heath Shaw, you have succeeded in making a mockery of yourself, your teammates, your club and to an extent, your fans, and all for the price of $10. You may want to consider placing a bet on yourself being forgiven by the supports - I suspect that it would pay very well.