After seeing a need in his own life as a young Indigenous footballer trying to break into the AFL, Fremantle’s Harley Bennell has put his hand up to help coach young players in the club’s Next Generation Academy.

The midfielder joined forces with the NGA recently to fulfil his desire to give back to the community.

“As a young player growing up, we didn’t have that support,” Bennell said.

“But as we’ve seen, the Fremantle Football Club has given more support to the Next Generation and also to young Indigenous and multicultural footballers.

“It’s really important for me give back to the community.”

Drawing players from five metropolitan zones and the Kimberley and Wheatbelt regions, the academy aims to develop young talent, giving boys and girls the chance to play football at a competitive level.

Bennell, who made a long awaited comeback this season after nearly two years away from football with multiple calf injuries, worked alongside fellow Fremantle teammate Brady Grey.

“Brady usually takes the warm ups,” Bennell said.

“I touch base with the kids with the skills part of things; just helping them out.”