Reality bites sometimes when you least expect it.
During the AIS/AFL Academy tour to South Africa last month, the players found themselves at a number of townships where the contrast could not have been starker.
Dandenong Stingray Luke Parker recalled how on one side of the road stood a shopping centre, which judging by all its glamour he estimated was worth multi millions. On the other a community of several thousand clustered in shanties.
Parker noted it was a poignant moment and put in perspective the life he enjoys as an aspiring AFL footballer.
“It was much dirtier than it is back home. It was a bit of shock, but all the people were great,” Parker said.
Apart a visit to Johannesburg and a safari trip, there was a stopover in Cape Town during the 10-day stay.
While they were in Cape Town, the AIS/AFL Academy, under the guidance of former Kangaroo Jason McCartney, played the South African team.
As expected the AIS/AFL Academy was far superior to the host team, but with all music, dancing, atmosphere and color it provided a memorable backdrop.
Not far out of Cape Town the players took a clinic, which attracted four schools and more than a couple of hundred children aged between six to 14.
Most arrived without football boots, many did not have any shoes at all, but it mattered little. Nothing could put a dampener on their enthusiasm.
“They didn’t know too much about the game, but they absolutely loved all the training. You could tell by the smiles on their faces,” Parker said.
“We got out the tackling bags and they were really into that. You could see that a couple had some natural ball skill.
“The locals really love it. Whenever they’re out there they are giving it 100 percent. It makes you feel good as well. I just enjoyed the whole trip, I learned a lot.”
Significantly, Parker was runner-up in the Ben Mitchell Medal awarded for the player who’s on and off field qualities serve as an inspiration to his teammates. Oakleigh Chargers’ Tim Golds was awarded the Medal.
Before embarking on the tour of South Africa, the AIS/AFL Academy played the Sydney Swans reserves who emerged with a hard fought win.
On the return leg, they played against West Perth, whom they defeated by 70-points.
“Everyone was really happy with our effort, everyone bonded together as a team,” Parker said.
As he now focuses on a return to the TAC Cup in the build up to the AFL Under 18 National Championships, Parker reflected positively on his time in the Academy.
Parker said the benefit extended beyond improving his football skills and knowledge.
“Just all the little things like public speaking, leadership, psychology – not getting distracted out on the ground – has been a great help,” Parker said.
Last Modified on 05/05/2010 15:42