50 young footballers attended the two day camp, which received an overwhelmingly positive response from the young group.
The first day featured a presentation from Essendon Football Club Head of Recruitment, Adrian Dodoro, about what recruiters look for in young emerging players as well as the importance of consistency of performance in a heavily scrutinized industry.
Essendon Football Club Assistant Coach Matthew Egan conducted a video analysis of a recent Essendon game and illustrated to the group the role of tactics and football strategy.
An extended skills and endurance based drill session was then carried out by senior players Tom Bellchambers and Scott Gumbleton.
However the day one highlight for many was the surprise visit from senior coach James Hird who took part in the analysis and also imparted some wisdom on the group.
The second day comprised of talks from first and second year players; Elliot Kavanagh, Ariel Steinberg, Mark Baguley, Hal Hunter and Anthony Long.
The players talked about their rise through the talent pathways to AFL ranks, the importance of having goals on and off the field and touched on showing resilience in the face of adversity.
Camp participants were treated to a memorable tour of the inner sanctum of Windy Hill by three time premiership player and club legend Jack Jones.
Matt Francis (Acting General Manager, Corporate and Public Affairs) from Melbourne Airport was on hand to speak with the group about the community partnership with Essendon FC which specifically focuses on working with communities in the growing north west region of Melbourne, and also presented the participation certificates to all camp attendees.
Cameron Britt, Essendon Football Club Community Manager, congratulated all players for their commitment over the two days and thanked Melbourne Airport for ‘their support in developing the best young football talent in the region.’
