Last week, young people from the Ladder program had a once in a lifetime opportunity to participate in a mentoring session, an on-field experience and behind-the-scenes tour with senior representatives and players from the Richmond Football Club.

Ladder, the AFL Players’ Official Charity, delivers tailored, holistic development and mentoring programs to help young people in need across Australia.

Participants, who had made a four-hour round trip from Gippsland were warmly welcomed and supported by Player Development Managers, Coaches, former and current AFL players as well as having the opportunity to meet Richmond Football Club CEO, Shane Dunne.

“I was nervous at first, but the players and staff made us feel so comfortable. They took the time to connect with us and showed real interest in what we were doing. It made me realise how much of an impact they can have on young people like me, " said 17 year old, JJ.

“I wasn’t really into football but seeing the players in person and having them talk to us like we were part of the team was awesome. They seemed to really care about our journey, and that meant a lot even talking to me about gaming and stuff was cool,” shared another 17 year old participant.

Participants got up close to the training session and were invited onto the field with Ivan Maric and Nathan Broad to meet the players and take a group photo. Players greeted the young people, both on the field and during the club tour, with many stopping to have a chat to get to know them.

“This training session was eye-opening. Not only did I get a look into the life of football players, but the way the players treated us was really nice. It made me feel like anything’s possible if you put in the work,” said 21 year old Ladder participant.

As part of the mentoring session, program participants had the opportunity to ask the PDM’s questions, covering topics such as career pathways and life experiences.

Indigenous Player Development Manager, Joel Garner shared with the group his own experience of finishing his AFL career with Port Adelaide and how through his support networks, he became involved with Indigenous Program, Korin Gamadji which led him to his current role. He also spoke to the group about the importance of seeking help during difficult times.

“It’s so important to talk about what you’re going through and there’s no shame to it. It definitely helped me,” he shared with the group.

This was well received by the group who, through Ladder, are supported to improve their health and wellbeing, independent living skills, community connections and embark on education, employment and training pathways.

 “Take the failure as a learning strategy”, one participant, Saxon, 21 years of age, reflected.

Ladder CEO, Stephanie De Campo said Ladder’s connection with Richmond Football Club runs deep, with Tigers’ legend Joel Bowden being one of the organisation’s three founding members.

“18 years on from Joel founding Ladder with players Mark Bolton and Paul Licuria, it’s a privilege to continue our work with the players and Richmond Football Club to support young people through life’s toughest quarters.

This experience, and the warmth and care in which Richmond staff and players went about it, has resonated deeply with the participants, making them feel connected to community and has inspired them to think differently about their futures.

We would like to thank Player Development Manager, Jacqui Hilton; Indigenous Player Development Manager, Joel Garner; Player Development Coordinator, Ruck Coach and former player Ivan Maric, Richmond Football Club CEO, Shane Dunne and all the players and staff that made this such an unforgettable experience for the young people,” Ms De Campo said.