Fremantle Dockers players attended training sessions all over the Perth metro area on Tuesday, as part of the lead up to the 2016 Nicky Winmar Carnival.
The program provides Indigenous youth with an avenue to enter the WA football system as well as increase the amount of players at the community club level.
Danyle Pearce attended the session at Southlake, and said the enthusiasm of the young players a real positive.
“It was great to see them being really keen to pick our brains,” Pearce said.
“We gave them a few tips, and answered quite a few questions about our diet, training regime and the whole recovery process.
“Hopefully, we can give them that one per cent that helps in furthering their footy career, no matter how far they want to take it.”
Pearce also stressed the importance of the program, saying it provides an important outlet for Indigenous youth.
“It’s a huge motivator,” he said.
“Obviously programs like the Nicky Winmar Carnival help footy skills but they equally promote education and professionalism on top of that.
“Football has always been a great tool to keep the kids focused on what matters and provides incentive for them to keep improving.”
When asked about whether there were any future Freo players out there today, Pearce said there was only one thing they need to focus on.
“Right now, all they need to do is build the love of the game and enjoy being out there,” he said.
The love of the game started at Ron Jose Oval for Freo forward Michael Walters, who returned to the Midvale ground where he commenced his junior footy career.
“This is where my footy started,” Walters said.
“It’s always been a dream to play AFL footy and I like to think it started here.
Walters admitted that while he had changed a lot since he played junior football in the area, some things had stayed the same.
“I don’t think I’ve changed since then, I hope the buck teeth are gone, the rat tail is definitely gone,” he laughed.
Walters said it was important for him to return to Midvale, and provide a positive example of what youth sports can provide to the Indigenous community.
“To see a lot of younger kids getting involved in sport and to be seen as a shining light for them, I’m proud of that.”
