It was graduation day at the Fremantle Football Club on Thursday 8 August.  

First year players, Jack Hannath, Matt Taberner, Josh Simpson, Tanner Smith, Max Duffy, Alex Howson and Craig Moller were acknowledged for completing their AFL Apprenticeship program.

The program, which runs from January until the end of the season, aims to equip the players with skills in communication, leadership as well as time and financial management.

Player develpoment co-ordinator Liam Casson has seen the players develop off-field during the program and recognises the benefits.

“Yesterday wrapped up the program where the guys received their Certificate III in Sport and Development,” he said.

“The program gives them the holistic development skills needed to be an AFL footballer.”

Apart from being a great opportunity for the players to develop their skills, it has allowed the group of players to get to know each other.

“You see guys at the start of the program who are quite reserved, then by the end they have come out of their shell, so that’s always nice to see,” Casson said.

“It’s been fascinating to watch friendships form.

“They are a real close-knit group.”

Casson said the players have been receptive to the program and have realised the benefits and value of participating.

“The career development part of the program really sets them up for next year,” he said.

“They have to think about their future and whether they want to go to TAFE, university or complete another course.”

“A couple of years ago Michael Barlow was part of the program and last year guys like Lachie Neale and Cam Sutcliffe participated.

“It’s good for the first year players to see the older guys who have done it.

“It’s a program that is continually growing legs.”