A handful of rising Hawks stars met with Victorian Premier Ted Baillieu as part of a leadership and development program at Parliament House earlier in the week.

Assistant Coach Brendon Bolton accompanied young Hawks Jarryd Morton, Isaac Smith, Liam Shiels, Luke Lowden and Matthew Suckling who were treated to dinner and an insight into political leadership.

“We wanted our guys to explore (political) leadership, so I contacted Jeff (Kennett) who went on to contact the Premier, which led to an invitation to have dinner with him and his advisors.

“He shared some great philosophies and what leadership means to him, and then went on to show us around Parliament and through their offices which was fantastic,” Bolton said.

“He spoke about challenging his own mindset, and his philosophies were solid; thinking dictates what we do.”

The young players had previously been encouraged by the Club to explore leadership across different fields in society. This opportunity allowed the five players to draw an insightful link between the mindsets of politicians and footballers.

“His message was to get control of your thoughts, which will then determine how you feel, and then how you act or lead, which is very applicable for footy.” Bolton said.

Having so far played seven games in the 2011 season, defender Matt Suckling shared his ways of showing leadership within the Club even as a younger, developing player.

“I definitely believe in speaking up. If I see something that needs to be said, I’ll say it and try and stick to it.”

Although initially hesitant at spending a few hours with a handful of politicians, Suckling was pleasantly surprised with the Premier’s way of showing leadership and inspiring it in others.

“He (the Premier) was really great and very accommodating and dished out some great advice.

“One thing I took away from the meeting was the Premier’s suggestion to focus on the things we do well, rather than the negative.

“Get up, speak up, and stay up - that was one of his philosophies that resounded with me.

“He gets his share of criticism so I’ll definitely take that advice!”

The young Hawks hope to show their developing leadership skills both on and off the field in 2011.