AT A TIME when country footy is struggling it’s important for former AFL players to give back to the community, according to Nick Dal Santo.
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The former St Kilda and North Melbourne midfielder visited Echuca United’s under 10s and 12s on Wednesday night as part of the Toyota Good for Footy program.
Despite wet and windy conditions, the 322-game veteran was heavily involved — teaching the youngsters skills but most importantly he was happy to stop and answer any questions.
‘‘Being here has brought back so many memories of growing up in Bendigo,’’ he said.
“The beauty of junior footy is its purity – everyone is here to have a bit of fun with their mates and enjoy a sport they love.
‘‘I get as much out of these experiences as the kids probably do.’’
Having grown up in a regional centre, Dal Santo knows how important clubs can be to the community — and currently teams are struggling for numbers at senior and junior level across the country.
“It is still difficult to get your head around some of the stories you hear,’’ he said.
‘‘These types of programs are important to continue encouraging kids to stay involved in the game.
‘‘You get a great feeling from being able to give back to local communities.’’
While Dal Santo’s career was littered with three All-Australian selections, an International Rules series and three AFL grand final appearances it would not have mattered if he wasn’t having fun.
From the moment he first took to the field, Dal Santo always wanted to enjoy what he was doing.
‘‘I’ve always believed you need to be having fun whatever level you are playing at,’’ he said.
‘‘Sometimes in the AFL we go away from the purity and the reason we love the game because there is so much on the line.
“But at this age it’s about being part of the community and staying fit and healthy.’’
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