There was a special moment last week as former Bomber Alwyn Davey took his twin sons to The Hangar for their very first James Hird Academy training session at the club.
The Darwin-based boys rarely get the chance to return to Melbourne, but made the most of it during Dreamtime week, training with JHA coach Heath Hocking and helping form a guard of honour at Dreamtime at the ‘G on Saturday.
Davey said it was great to see his 14-year-olds Alwyn Jr and Jayden in the red and black, and said the duo play the game with the same attacking flare that he did not too long ago.
“I’m really proud to have the boys come down here,” Davey said last week.
“And the boys were happy and excited to have a kick as well down at Essendon.
“They take the game on a bit, but they’re still learning and having a kick and having fun with their friends.”
Davey was thrilled to return to the club to catch up with some familiar faces and said while he isn’t inclined to pull the boots back on for the occasion, the Sir Douglas Nicholls Indigenous Round was always a special period on the calendar for him.
“I guess from when I was playing it’s something that I really felt proud of, playing in the round,” he said.
“It’s a great step the AFL recognising indigenous players and also the community.
“I think I’m slowing down a little bit now, but like I said, it was an honour to play in these games and something that I always wanted to get myself up for.”
No pressure is being placed on the twins, with Davey stressing that his Essendon-loving sons will be allowed to forge their own path in life.
“They barrack for them…but at the end of the day, I just want the boys to have a bit of fun and enjoy themselves in whatever (path) they take and what option they do it’s totally up to them.”
See more of the young Davey boys’ visit in the video above.