Archie said the experience taught him to live without regrets – and to always have fun playing football.

The Tatyoon Hawk was one of 10 junior footballers to take part in the intense camp, led by Hawthorn great Peter Knight, under a shared sponsor between Hawthorn and grassroots clubs.

Archie toured the Hawks’ Glenferrie facilities, trained in a superclinic and attended lectures on fitness, welfare and good habits to have in life. He ate tea with the playing list and coaching staff at the Glenferrie Hotel, but it was a training session, with Knight explaining exactly how players prepared, that he learned most for Tatyoon.

“They do similar stuff in training but it’s a much more higher intensity,” Archie said. 

“I learned some different stuff to bring back to Tatyoon, so hopefully I can help improve everyone’s skills.

“We learned lots of life skills too….The big thing was to never regret – always do something for a good reason and always give 100 per cent.”

Archie said it was great to be shown around by Knights, who offered great insight on the club and the life of being an AFL player – which was just as much about community work as it was about playing football.

The Marian College year nine student is a passionate Collingwood supporter but admitted he definitely respected Hawthorn more.

“It’s hard work to be a footballer, on and off the field,” Archie said.