SM&W ROVERS' footballer Liam Baker got a rare insight into the life of an AFL player last month when the junior spent two days at the Hawthorn Football Club as part of the Mortimer Petroleum Performance Program.
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Baker was part of a large group of players from clubs across country Victoria who were nominated by their club president because of the great commitment to their local community.
Baker was selected because of the leadership he had shown with the Bulldogs over a number of years - he is always willing to help and support around the club.
His football skills and ability has improved greatly over several seasons and SM&W Rovers' coaches thought the opportunity to participate in the Mortimer Petroleum Performance Program would enhance his football.
Day one saw participants arrive at the Hawks' headquarters, the Ricoh Centre at Waverley Park, and given an historic induction from Hawthorn great Peter Knights before touring the facility with football administrator Chris Nanni.
The group watched Hawthorn train from a corporate suite and met CEO Stuart Fox.
Baker had the opportunity to have lunch with mentor Taylor Duryea where he was able to ask plenty of questions about what it takes to play football at the highest level.
The Marian College student also received a Hawks' pack from Duryea.
Over the two days the group also participated in training, including gym work, boxing and pool sessions with various staff from the Hawthorn Football Club.
Baker returned to Melbourne a fortnight later to attend Hawthorn's round 18 match against Sydney at the MCG where he had the opportunity to visit Hawthorn's change room pre-match to watch the players warm-up.
The Mortimer Petroleum Performance Program has been running for four years.
