The pair, both keen surfers, ventured to Bells Beach to catch some of the action at the Rip Curl Pro and were both delighted with the experience.
“I have wanted to meet Mick for a long time because growing up he was my idol and I was fortunate enough through the Essendon Football Club to get that opportunity,” McVeigh said.
“I probably started tracking his progress 11 or 12 years ago when he first came onto the surfing scene and since then he has kept getting better and better.
“I have often heard about his professionalism and the things he has to overcome in his life such as his brother dying and serious injuries so I would call him an inspiration and it is good to take inspiration from other people in other sports.""
McVeigh admits to travelling down to the beach at least once a week to enjoy a surf and clear his head.
“I think surfing is all about getting out there and relaxing and thinking about other things in life in order to refocus onto what is important,” McVeigh said.
“Not only does surfing give you an outlet but it keeps you fit as well so in the off-season I do it as much as I can. It is also good for rehab in terms of using your muscles and venturing out into the cold waters of Victoria.”
