Lesmurdie maths teacher heads to the AFL

Lesmurdie Senior High School principal Donna Gardiner is looking for a new maths and PE teacher after hers was offered a contract by AFL heavyweight club Essendon on Tuesday.

Thomas Edwards earned his way onto the Bombers list with an impressive four-goal performance in just half a practice match against the Western Bulldogs on the weekend.

He’s been training with Essendon, the club he supports, since January as a Supplement Selection Period train-on player.  

It paid off. 

The 24-year-old, from Albany, has been a regular member of Swan Districts forward line since 2022, after making his WAFL debut in 2020. 

He played 66 league games, kicking 109 goals. His ability to take a high mark has been a highlight of his young career. 

Lesmurdie principal, Donna, who is now a proud Dons supporter, said Edwards is a terrific role model for the kids at the school. 

“Thomas is a brilliant maths and phys ed teacher and he also taught science for us,” she said. 

“To put yourself in an uncomfortable zone, put yourself out there for an opportunity, it’s the traits of a role model. 

“If you’re not willing to be uncomfortable, then you won't grow. 

“We are always letting the students know that it’s ok to be brave, to be prepared to fail. 

“He is now living out what he wants. 

“I now need a maths teacher, by tomorrow.  

“I told Thomas that when he’s finished in the AFL, no matter where I am working, I’ve got a job for him.” 

Students and staff surprised Edwards on Tuesday by dressing in Essendon’s black and red colours and presented him with a cake in the shape of a football oval. 

“He was a bit overawed by the attention,” she said. 

“We invited the students back at lunch time to watch the highlights of his four goals from the weekend. It was packed and he couldn’t get out of the school. 

“It was a nice moment, where we could celebrate his success.” 

Former West Coast Eagle Matt Rosa, now the General Manager – List and Recruiting at Essendon, said Edwards offers X-factor to the club. 

“Given he's had a different pathway compared to most, it was really exciting getting him into to the club and he'll add genuine versatility to our forward line with his size, his maturity from senior football, his marking ability, his goal sense and his work ethic as mentioned,” he said. 

“After landing in Melbourne, his willingness to work and buy into the program has been evident, as well as his unique skillset.  

“Tom has some X-factor and a high-end work rate that we are excited to add to our squad.”