"I’m pretty much in the same boat as the kids in that I’ve never been there and I’m just jumping out of my skin to get over there to soak up the culture and meet the locals. I think that’s the best way to explore any part of the world". Michael O'Loughlin, Flying Boomerangs Coach

 
When I was 15, the furthest I ventured for a footy trip was a couple of hundred k's up the road. This trip is one of those once-in-a-lifetime experiences where you get to go away and represent your country and your people in a different place in the world.

I’m pretty much in the same boat as the kids in that I’ve never been there and I’m just jumping out of my skin to get over there to soak up the culture and meet the locals. I think that’s the best way to explore any part of the world.

And let’s not forget we’ve got a couple of games to play as well!

I want to get to know everyone on the trip - although memorising names is going to be a real challenge. I’ve noticed there’s a boy called Kickett - Nathan, his name is. I played with Derek at the Swans a long, long time ago, so my first question will be, ‘What’s the relation to Derek?’

Some of these guys have never been out of their communities. This is their chance to see what’s going on in the world today. And even though they might be doing it tough, there are always others doing it tougher.

South Africa is a place that can capture your imagination. I really am looking forward to

Article courtesy of Chelsea Roffey, afl.com.au