Akermanis a Special Guest at Henderson Park
07 Jul, 2011
FORMER Brisbane Lion and Western Bulldog champion Jason Akermanis was a special guest at Henderson Park last night, taking training for the combined Wembley Colts and Marist Junior Football Club under 17’s squads.
The 2001 Brownlow Medalist wore a Wembley jumper as he took the squad through drills, but training is only one of the reasons he’s at the club, also speaking at the Wembley Quiz Night on Saturday – but not only about football.
“I’ve had a pretty interesting life,” Akermanis said.
“I do a lot of speaking, talk about my life, where I came from and how I got to where I am. While that sounds like it wouldn’t be that interesting it’s pretty intriguing”
“I hardly talk about footy”
Wembley Amateur Football Club President Anthony Gooch was wrapped to get the three time premiership player at the club, saying the often controversial Akermanis was fantastic.
“I rocked down to the Club 15 min before training to see Jason having a kick with a few of younger players – it was pleasing sight.” Mr Gooch said.
“He was very approachable, great with the kids and even though be looked a little bushed from travel he stuck around and had a few words during our team selections.”
Akermanis, fresh off his performance in Tuesday nights E.J Whitten Legends Match, spoke of the structure football gave him during his challenging childhood, saying that although he was always smart enough he didn’t have a lot other than football.
“I just loved sport so much and I suppose it was a really good fit for me, football. Without it I always wonder, actually I never wonder – I’m just glad it happened” He said.
Gooch also spoke highly of the structure football and football clubs provide but he knows that football can’t provide all the answers.
“What I hope that it does provide is safe and inclusive environment where members can enjoy the mateship of others and put some of their worries behind them – even if it is for a few hours a week.”
Despite Gooch being pleased with the way Akermanis took training, he wasn’t willing to commit to one of champions trademark handstands if Wembley got the win.
“Let’s just get the win first – If we do it certainly won’t be me” He said.
The Wembley Colts play Kingsley at Kingsley Park this Saturday, the 9th July at 10:45am, followed by Reserves at 12:30pm and B League at 2:30pm.
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