Retired Western Bulldogs player Aiden O’Driscoll recently completed his internship with Ladder, under the guidance of fellow AFL alumni and Ladder AFL Industry Engagement Coordinator, Sam Philp.

We are so proud to be the official charity of the AFL Players’ Association and to able to provide professional development and meaningful opportunities to current, former and retired AFL and AFLW players.

Over the past six months, Aiden engaged in various Ladder program activities and supported Ladder’s fundraising and awareness campaign during the 2024 Toyota AFL Finals Series. We are so thankful for having Aiden intern with us and share his knowledge and skills with Ladder young people and staff.

We sat down with Aiden to reflect on his internship with Ladder. Watch the full video or read the transcript below.

How did the opportunity to intern with Ladder present itself?

I got drafted to the Bulldogs at the end of last year and unfortunately, I had to retire medically due to concussion, so I was seeking opportunities work-wise. My Player Development Manager got me involved with sort of different work within the Bulldogs and then there was this opportunity to work with Ladder. I met up with Sam to grab a coffee and went through some options and the internship turned out the best option for me.

“It’s been great having Aiden intern with me. He was super interested and always really keen to learn about Ladder, the work we do and how he can best get involved.” said Sam Philp, when he was asked to reflect on Aiden’s internship with him.

What are some memorable moments from your internship?

I went to the snow, met up with a few of the kids and literally just talked about life with them sort of supported them as much as I could. I always love that work, giving back and sort of knowing other people’s stories because some people aren’t also privileged as others. I also shadowed Sam leading up into the Finals Series. And the Footy Festival, that was massive selling AFL Grand Final pins to raise money for the (Ladder) charity.

How has interning with Ladder supported your professional development and career goals?

Well by doing the internship, it’s really helped me gain confidence around people, different perspectives of life and it has given me confidence for work in the workplace.

What other opportunities does Ladder provide for players?

Other opportunities include volunteering, mentoring or visiting a group.

“I just want to say thanks to Ladder for the opportunities they gave me within my internship.”

To learn more about ladder and how you can get involved as a player, visit: ladder.org.au/afl-industry