Richmond players Reece Conca, Dylan Grimes and Matthew Arnot are in Alice Springs, on a three-day trip, visiting schools as part of the Club’s “Outback Tigers” program. Read about Dylan's memorable Alice Springs experience.

On Wednesday, I got up early and was driven around the dusty back streets of Alice Springs in the back of a ‘Troopy’ to pick up some of the boys from Centralian Senior College (CSC).

We met the CSC students on Monday, and I returned to take a skills session with the boys before they started class, as a key component of my coaching course, so I was in my element!

The students’ shy nature was quickly forgotten as their extraordinary football skills, which are way beyond their years and experience, were on display, in the picturesque Alice morning.

Almost as breathtaking as the scenery, was the laughter and camaraderie between these young blokes when the red leather came out.  It was unreal and truly humbling to see how footy can bring people together.

After the skills session, I travelled to Bradshaw Primary School where I was greeted with a performance by the kids in their assembly hall.

I had the opportunity to chat to the students and present them with an iPod generously donated by Dick Smith, for the students’ outstanding attendance records and commitment to school work.

During our trip, we spent some time with Scott Weily, who works for the Clontarf Foundation, for young Aboriginal men.  Scott is an incredible person making an amazing difference to the lives of Indigenous people.

Scott has seven children of his own, four of whom are Indigenous foster kids. He is also a father figure to so many more youngsters in the area. He is a coach, teacher, role model and trusted mate to a remarkable group of Indigenous kids.

During our three days in Alice Springs, we may have made a few kids smile, but  it was humbling to meet people like Scott, who dedicate so much time and energy to making a difference in people’s lives.  It is phenomenal and they deserve enormous recognition.

Unfortunately our Alice Springs adventure is over, but it’s something I will treasure forever.