Lions share inspirational tales with young athletes

Travis Johnstone, Tom Rockliff, Michael Rischitellis and Josh Dyson inspire young Flinders athletes. (posted 08.02.10)

A group of aspiring young Flinders athletes drew inspiration from Brisbane Lions AFL players during a visit to Matthew Flinders Anglican College.

Mid-fielders Travis Johnstone and Michael Rischitelli and new recruits Josh Dyson and Tom Rockliff visited the Buderim college as part of school visits across the Sunshine Coast during the Lions Community Camp from February 4-5.

The Flinders students, from Years 7 to 10, were selected to attend the Lions session due to the skill and dedication they have exhibited in their chosen sports.

The Lions players spoke of team values, sportsmanship and healthy living during their visit on Friday, February 5.

“The Lions are such a strong team,” Travis Johnstone told the students. “We’re on the same wavelength, everyone knows their roles and everyone is good at something.”

Michael Rischitelli said the club values were commitment, attitude and never give up. “It’s a can-do attitude – it’s what makes you play each game, each week. That’s what makes a club and that’s what makes a great team.”

Josh Dyson spoke of the tough days and the long stints at training. “You just keep getting up and pushing through it,” he said. “Try and have fun with it.”

Travis Johnstone signs autographs. Johnstone agreed: “Working so hard, you’ve got to make it fun.”

The players also spoke of the various sports they had played growing up, including athletics, basketball, baseball, cricket, and even lawn bowls, and the paths that had led them to the Brisbane Lions.

They encouraged the aspiring young athletes to work towards a healthy diet and lifestyle, and to always hydrate before and after training sessions and games.

The Lions players ended the school visit by signing autographs and having their photographs taken with the Flinders students.

Brisbane Lion Josh Drummond, who graduated from Flinders in 2000, did not have the opportunity to visit his old school during the camp, however, was on hand at Maroochydore to help unveil plans for the new AFL Lions Academy to be established on the Coast.

Co-Curricular - AFL

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