Kicking it with the best

By Kelly Lucas-Carmody

Jun 2, 2025

St Luke's Catholic Primary School PE teacher Troy Watts poses with Carlton AFLW player Meg Robertson and St Luke's students. Photo by Megan Fisher

Fit, fired up and full of dreams — that was the scene on the footy oval at St Luke’s Catholic Primary School on Monday, June 2, as students embraced the opportunity to enjoy a one-on-one kick with four AFLW Carlton players.

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Many gave up their usual lunchtime activities to take a mark, run a few light drills, and kick for goal with Breann Harrington, Darcy Vescio, Keeley Sherar and Meg Robertson, who visited the school as part of an AFL Victoria initiative.

AFL Victoria runs a range of programs that bring AFL and AFLW players into schools, offering students the chance to engage directly with professional athletes.

These visits often include Q&A sessions, clinics, and leadership talks — all designed to inspire students, promote physical activity and foster a love for the game.

St Luke’s teacher Troy Watt said the event was particularly significant for the school’s female students, as it promoted equality in sport and provided positive role models for aspiring young athletes.

“We’ve had teams from both the AFL and AFLW visit the school, and it’s a great experience for the kids to see some of the people they watch on TV,” Mr Watt said.

“Equality in sport is really important, and for our female students to be part of events like this — and actually meet professional female athletes up close — is incredibly inspiring for them.

“It’s an opportunity that opens their eyes and allows them to dream big — and that’s something every child should be encouraged to do.”

Mr Watt has been the PE teacher at St Luke’s for six years and is passionate about encouraging all students to lead healthy, active lives — a message he strives to share in every class.

For many students, sport is a favourite subject, so there’s no doubt Mr Watt earned extra ‘favourite teacher’ points for organising a day with AFLW heroes.

After all the fun on the field, it was time to head indoors for a Q&A session — giving students the chance to learn more about the players, their journeys and life in professional sport.

“Students are really excited, and some have prepared great questions — I’m sure we’ll hear a few interesting ones on the spot too,” he said.

“Promoting sport, fitness, and a healthy lifestyle during these early years is so important. Watching these kids grow and succeed — some even venturing into sports outside of school — is incredibly rewarding.

“We’re truly thankful that programs like this exist. They create memorable experiences for students and encourage them to stay active and pursue their passions.”

Students Edie Saunders, Ewa Patel, Mabel Alletsee and Chloe Van Kerkhof couldn’t agree on which team they’d play for if they ever made it to the pros — with favourites including Collingwood, Melbourne, Carlton and the Brisbane Lions.

But they all agreed that the best part of sport at school was teamwork, having fun and making new friends.