Robert Shirley is a name synonymous with resilience and discipline for fans of the Adelaide Crows.
A hard-nosed midfielder who carved out a niche as one of the AFL’s premier taggers, Shirley’s career was defined by his ability to shut down the opposition’s best players.
In this article, you will know Robert Shirley’s net worth, career earnings, career overview, stats, relationship status, and more.
Robert Shirley’s Biography
| Category | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Robert Shirley |
| Date of Birth | June 9, 1980 |
| Age | 46 |
| Nationality | Australian |
| Height | 184 cm (6 ft 0 in) |
| Weight | Approx. 85 kg (Playing Weight) |
| Turned Pro | 2002 (Debut) |
| Net Worth | Approx. $1 Million – $1.5 Million |
| Career Earnings | Est. $1.5 Million – $2 Million (AFL Total) |
| Salary | N/A (Retired from AFL) |
| Former Club | Adelaide Crows |
| Position | Midfielder / Tagger |
| Instagram Profile | N/A |
Early Career
Robert Shirley’s path to the AFL was not a straight line of elite junior selection. He was a late bloomer who had to earn his spot the hard way.
Originally from the rural town of Cummins on the Eyre Peninsula in South Australia, he grew up playing country football. His tenacity and work ethic were evident early on, traits that would later define his professional career.
Shirley was initially overlooked in the national drafts. He joined the Woodville-West Torrens Eagles in the SANFL, where he refined his game. His consistent performances as a tough, ball-winning midfielder eventually caught the eye of Adelaide recruiters.
He was placed on the Crows’ rookie list, a testament to his persistence. Unlike highly touted draft picks, Shirley knew he had to fight for every opportunity, a mindset that served him well as he transitioned into the elite level.
Professional Career
Robert Shirley made his AFL debut for the Adelaide Crows in 2002. He quickly established himself as a reliable and disciplined player.
Under the coaching of Neil Craig, Shirley found his true calling as a tagger. He was often tasked with nullifying the influence of the league’s most dangerous midfielders, a role he performed with distinction.
His ability to stick to an opponent like glue while still winning his own ball made him invaluable to the team structure.
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Over his eight-season career (2002-2009), Shirley played 151 games for the Crows. He was a key part of the Adelaide midfield during their strong runs in the mid-2000s, including playing in preliminary finals.
His career best season arguably came in 2005-2006, where he was a regular fixture in a dominant Crows lineup. He retired at the end of the 2009 season, leaving behind a reputation as a player who maximized his talent through sheer hard work and dedication.
After his playing career, he remained involved in football through coaching roles at the local and state league levels.
Robert Shirley’s Net Worth Details
As of 2026, Robert Shirley’s net worth is estimated to be between $1 million and $1.5 million.
Contract
During his playing days, Shirley was not among the highest-paid players in the league, reflecting his role as a tagger and his rookie list background.
However, his longevity allowed him to earn steady contracts. For example, historical data from 2004 lists his salary around $122,500, a respectable figure for that era.
By the end of his career in 2009, his contracts would have increased in line with the rising salary cap and his veteran status.
Salary
In 2026, Robert Shirley earns $0 from an AFL playing contract. His current income is derived from his professional employment outside of the AFL. Former players often transition into roles in sales, construction, or coaching, which provide stable incomes.
Career Earnings
| Period | Club | Estimated Total Earnings |
|---|---|---|
| 2007-2009 | Adelaide Crows | ~$750,000 (Veteran Contracts) |
| 2004-2006 | Adelaide Crows | ~$500,000 |
| 2002-2003 | Adelaide Crows | ~$200,000 (Rookie/Base) |
| Total | ~ | ~$1.5 Million (Gross Career Earnings) |
Career Stats
| Statistic | Details |
|---|---|
| Games Played | 151 |
| Goals | 35 |
| Disposals | 2,300+ |
| Debut | 2002 |
| Club | Adelaide Crows (2002-2009) |
| Guernsey Number | 11 |
FAQs
1. What is Robert Shirley’s net worth?
Robert Shirley has an estimated net worth of approximately $1 million to $1.5 million in 2026. This is accrued from his AFL career and post-football employment.
2. How many games did Robert Shirley play?
Robert Shirley played a total of 151 AFL games for the Adelaide Crows between 2002 and 2009.
3. What position did Robert Shirley play?
He primarily played as a midfielder, specializing as a tagger. He was known for his defensive work on opposition stars.
4. Which club did Robert Shirley play for?
He played his entire AFL career with the Adelaide Crows.
5. When did Robert Shirley retire?
Robert Shirley retired from the AFL at the end of the 2009 season.
