That was the situation when Ablett's team reached out to the Shepparton Swans to tee up the greatest player of the modern era speaking at a club function later this month.
Club president Jarrod Sutherland said there was no question of getting Ablett on board.
“We thought it'd be great to have him speak, it's quite an opportunity" Sutherland said.
The dinner at the Woolshed sold out in three days, and the Swans wondered if there was a chance of a follow-up.
“If he's staying the night we thought we'd see if he'd be keen to do Sunday lunch,” Sutherland said.
“We're pleased with the support of people wanting to see Gary — it's at the Woolshed, so people know they're going to get a quality meal too."
Sutherland said the floor would be opened up to questions and Ablett was slated to rub shoulders with the audience as well, and the Swans president hoped some of his club's young charges would take full advantage.
“He's got plenty of experience to hand down and they don't come much better than Gary Ablett,” he said.
“To be that successful in not just footy but life, you've got to have the right attitude."
Tickets are via Eventbrite, with the link on the Swans’ Facebook page.
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