Through Collingwood’s new father-son program, past champions of the club have the opportunity to take their sons into the Lexus Centre to use its elite facilities and utilise the coaching of club officials.
Over 25 kids with last names including Crosisca, Kerrison, Brown, Morwood, McKeown, Stewart, Kelly, Christian, Richardson and Wright took part in the father-son training session held at the Lexus Centre on Monday 16 February.
Development manager Luke Beveridge oversaw the operation along with VFL coach Gavin Brown and VFL Manager Paul Licuria.
“The goal of the program is for sons of former champion Collingwood players to enjoy the facilities of the Lexus Centre, get to know the coaches, the club and each other,” Beveridge told Collingwoodfc.com.au.
“In amongst this group of kids, whose fathers played in excess of 100 games for the Magpies, we could have some of the champions of the future. Or we could have a great bunch of kids who along with their dads, can enjoy just being the best footballers that they can be.”
Collingwood CEO and past player Gary Pert addressed the aspiring young players before the session.
He pointed out the priority of the program is for kids, ranging from two years of age up to 16, to enjoy being part of the club with their dads as they grow up wearing the black and white jumper.
The father-son program will include training camps, game-day experiences and specialised one on one coaching
“Collingwood has a long history of famous surnames that have represented the club. The family tradition is important here with many sons following in their father's and grandfather's footsteps.
“It was great watching the old boys reminisce with each other as they watched their young charges train at the Lexus Centre in amongst facilities they themselves would have never even dreamed of.”
The program is open to the sons of past players who have played 100 or more games with Collingwood.
Craig “Ned” Kelly brought his three sons Jake, Will and Max, to the Lexus Centre for the session and believed it was important for the club to maintain its links with Collingwood families.
“It’s great to get my boys down here to have them work with the coaching staff on developing their game and all the boys seemed to be having so much fun.
Pert added, “With a bit of expert coaching, Ned’s sons hopefully will kick on both left and right foot, something their dad could never achieve in his distinguished career.”
VFL manager Paul Licuria works with the younger kids on the sprung floor inside the Lexus Centre on Monday.
Former players' Craig Kelly, Alan Richardson, Gavin Crosisca and Graham Wright critique their son's running form.
Development manager Luke Beveridge instructs the older players on Gosch's Paddock.
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Ron McKeown, Shane Morwood, CEO Gary Pert, Shane Kerrison and Craig Stewart at Gosch's Paddock.
