Last week, a group of young people from Ladder programs spanning the past four years had the opportunity to speak directly with Adelaide Crows Captain and Ladder Board Director, Jordan Dawson.

What followed was a series of honest, one-on-one conversations across different ages, experiences and stages in their journey. Each young person was given the time and space to share their story. Nothing rehearsed. Nothing forced. Just real conversations.

That is what stood out. Jordan did not speak at them, he listened, asked questions and took the time.

"My experience with the young people was really eye-opening, even from just a short conversation. It was genuinely enjoyable to chat and hear their stories firsthand.

What stood out was how open they were and how much they’ve grown. It was clear that Ladder has made a significant difference in their lives, giving them support, stability, and a chance to move forward.

It was a simple interaction, but a meaningful one, and it really showed the positive impact Ladder has." - Jordan Dawson, Ladder Director and Adelaide Crows FC Captain

For some young people, like Noah, it was Jordan’s effort that stood out:

"It was really nice to have that kind of interaction… it was nice to have a chat with Jordan and see that he’s putting in effort to connect with Ladder participants. In a way it helps me and other people to feel seen."

For Bella, the conversation went both ways. It was not only about sharing her experience, but about ensuring those in leadership understand what their involvement means in practice.

"It was great to provide Jordan with more of an understanding about the program and to make him aware that his support and advocacy is actually doing something."

She also spoke about connection, an integral part of Ladder’s approach, strengthened further through player involvement:

"Building connections and relationships is always a great way to feel supported. The more connections you have and the more relationships you build, the stronger your support network."

This is where players have a unique role. Not because of status, but because of influence. When a young person hears from someone they look up to, someone they have watched compete, handle pressure and navigate setbacks, it carries weight. It helps them see that adversity does not define them, and that they have the ability to overcome challenges and shape their own future.

Katie captured that impact clearly:

"Support from Jordan is so important because it feels genuine. Coming from someone I look up to, it hits differently… it makes me feel seen, valued, and like I have mattered and made an impact. It gives me a bit more strength to keep going when things feel hard."

For players, this is the impact. It is not about big speeches or perfect words. It is about showing up, being present and taking a genuine interest. Because those small moments, a question, a conversation, a few minutes of real connection, can shift how a young person sees themselves and influence what comes next.

Nearly two decades ago, one of those moments changed everything.

"I asked him why he was living on the street, and he told me it was safer than sleeping at home. He wouldn’t have been older than 15." - Mark Bolton, Ladder Co-founder & former AFL player

That moment became the starting point for Ladder. It shaped an understanding that players, and the AFL industry, can influence meaningful change in the lives of vulnerable young people, and that support takes more than a service. It takes connection, consistency and people who show up.

Moments like this continue to carry that same intent.

Through conversations like these, young people are reminded that where they have been, or where they find themselves now, does not have to define what comes next.