The most decorated player in Brisbane Lions history Michael Voss passed on his vast experience to a batch of eager teenagers at Runaway Bay this week.
Having launched the program before he went on tour to Ireland with the Australian International Rules team, Voss followed up by putting the AFL Gold Coast Tigers Rookie Search Program members through their paces at the Runaway Bay Super Sports Centre.
In what was a handy warm up for next week when Voss travels to Canberra in his new role as an AIS Academy Australian under 17 coach, Voss took the Gold Coast squad for a training session and leadership seminar.
The 35-strong squad spent almost three hours with the AFL legend picking up valuable information both on and off the track.
It was a tremendous opportunity for the local hopefuls to listen and learn from arguably the greatest leader in the history of the AFL/VFL.
"The young players in our program have been so looking forward to Michael's session," said program coordinator Justin Nickerson. "They weren't disappointed. I've never heard a young group of players ask so many questions."
Program coach Mick Laidler went further.
"It was a once in a lifetime opportunity for these guys to spend time with a great player and leader who one day just might be a great coach," he said.
Players who impressed Voss during the sessions included 19-year-old Labrador player Jordan Miller, whose infectious enthusiasm and get up and go caught the eye.
Tim Wilkinson, a 17-year-old former water polo player demonstrated great hand-eye coordination and game sense. Wilkinson was spotted playing for Trinity College in a recent schoolboy match. Another to catch the eye at school football who is impressing in the program is 17-year-old former basketballer Russell Grant, from AB Patterson College.
Dean Toboekhurst, a 16-year-old midfielder, impressed with his attitude and work ethic, as did another 16-year-old in Justin Knight from Coomera.
The program continues right through summer with sessions to come in the next month from the likes of Australian Cricket and Brisbane Lions sports psychologist Phil Jauncey and Brisbane Lions dual premiership player Robert Copeland.
Last Modified on 30/11/2006 21:52