Australian cricket superstar Nathan Lyon is set to spin a yarn and offer advice for Shepparton locals as his ‘Have You Got What It Takes’ tour embarks into regional Victoria.
The 38-year-old is an international cricket hero, claiming 567 wickets in test match cricket, the second-most of any player to pull on the baggy green, behind only the legendary Shane Warne.
On Wednesday, April 15, Lyon will present three events, two in Shepparton and one in Mooroopna, offering leadership insights and skills sessions for juniors.
Raised in regional New South Wales, Lyon reflected on the importance of giving back to rural areas.
“Cricket has provided so many great experiences on and off the field, and all around the world, and I’ve been fortunate to enjoy a long career in the game I love,” he said.
“I’ve learned and grown so much during this time and I’m really keen to share that with the next generation.
“I was lucky enough to grow up in the regional town of Young, and play my first cricket there, so I know how important it is to bring sporting development opportunities to rural and regional locations and appreciate the passion there is for cricket in these areas.”
As well as cricketing skills, Lyon aims to teach leadership traits and professional development inside a sporting career following his years of mentorship to younger emerging cricket prodigies.
“The cricket world is so competitive, just like any other professional arena, so aside from the cricket skills you need to ascend the career ladder, you also need to develop mental strength, resilience, interpersonal communication and leadership attributes,” Lyon said.
“Leadership is something we’re all capable of, and the skills that make you a good leader also benefit so many other aspects of your life.
“I never considered myself a leader when selected for the Australian Test cricket team, but there was one occasion that changed that, and I’m keen to share that experience with the communities I visit.
“The most valuable leadership lessons may not come from the biggest moments, but it’s in the big moments those lessons really matter.
“And just simple things you can do every day can develop those skills and determine what people see.”
A student leaders summit at Quality Hotel Parklake runs from 11:30am to 1:00pm on Wednesday, April 15, before a sold-out junior cricket sports clinic is held at Mooroopna Recreation Reserve between 3:00pm and 5:00pm.
Lyon will pull up stumps in Shepparton after a parents, players and clubs evening forum from 7:00pm to 9:30pm, back at Quality Hotel Parklake.
Lyon will also visit Echuca on Thusday, April 16.
Tickets can be booked for the Shepparton sessions here.
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