The camp has had a good balance of footy and cultural experiences.
For example, a few days ago we visited the apartheid museum and discovered what went on in South Africa in days gone by and learned about Nelson Mandela in the lead-up to a training session and match with the South African Lions.
It was fascinating to see the Lions singing and dancing when they came off the training track, and really good to see how a different culture approaches their game.
Although the AIS boys defeated the Lions by 20 goals, it was a very physical contest. The Lions tackled really hard, but our boys were just too precise, skilful and strong and it was reflected in their victory. It's been really pleasing to see how the boys have come together.
AIS-AFL Academy coach Jason McCartney, assistant Michael O'Loughlin and I have also met up with the 16 full-time staff in AFL South Africa. We had a brainstorming session with them, helping them to grow the game over here. And hopefully there will be a NAB Cup game over here next year.
We've had some amazing dinners, tasted some great meat and listened to bands, so we've really got into the South African culture. We've also visited Robben Island and where Nelson Mandela was imprisoned.
This is my second time to South Africa, having visited it on my first footy trip in 1997.
After that visit I thought I would never come back again, but doing a planned trip where everything is organised, I've just found it to be a beautiful country. I've seen so many things I haven't seen before.
We also had a fun day at Sun City, which is a bit of a mini Las Vegas. There are beautiful swimming pools there, so the boys had plenty of fun.
We've also gone on safari, visited Johannesburg, Cape Town and Newlands, where they play test cricket on of the most picturesque grounds in the world, with the mountains behind it.
This trip really has been a highlight of my footy career. Most of my travelling overseas has been with my wife or seeing the nightlife with teammates, so it's been great to have a cultural experience and to see different parts of the country. It's certainly been one of the best trips I've ever been on.
