35 students from remote communities in the Northern Territory were welcomed to Sydney Swans HQ last week as part of the National Aboriginal Sporting Chance Academy’s (NASCA) CareerFit program.

The students, from Mt Allan School Yuelamu, Papunya School and Ntaria School (Hermannsburg) were able to gain a unique insight into the inner-sanctum of the Club with a guided tour of the facilities including the coach’s room and warm-up area at the SCG.

Premiership player and current Sydney Swans Academy Head Coach Michael O’Loughlin was on hand to speak to the students, aged between 12 and 15, about pathways to football, leadership, discipline and the day-to-day workings of a professional football club.

O’Loughlin also took the chance to show off the 2005 premiership cup for a photo opportunity before running the students through their paces with some handball drills.

NASCA Program Officer, Amy Sarandopoulos, said the students were very excited about the opportunity.

“To have the opportunity to listen to an Indigenous former AFL player and legend of the game speak about the importance of nutrition, school and making sacrifices to achieve your goals was very important and extremely special,” she said.

“The tour for many students will be the highlight of their stay here in Sydney. NASCA is extremely grateful to the Sydney Swans for generously donating their time and allowing us to have such a special experience”.

The Sydney Swans welcome various community groups into the Club all year round. Send an e-mail to enquiries@sydneyswans.com.au to express interest or find out more.

The students had the chance to see the inner sanctum of the SCG.

Michael O'Loughlin poses with the premiership cup among the students.