There's nothing professional footballers enjoy more than returning to the grassroots of their sport.
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Australian rules stars Marcus Bontempelli and Emma Grant will be in Bendigo this week for the Active Attitudes school holiday AFL program.
"One of the many cool aspects of playing football is being able to give back," Bontempelli said.
"I remember what it was like having visits from AFL players when I was a kid growing up.
"It's great to now have the opportunity to be able to give back to today's younger generation."
The Active Attitudes clinic will include skills development from professional coaching staff with an emphasis on mate-ship and having a positive mindset.
"It's a great concept and program to help kids stay physically active, but also to focus on the importance of mental wellbeing - all the while having a lot of fun," Bontempelli said.
Former Bendigo Thunder player Grant can't wait to share her skills and knowledge with the next generation of footballers.
"I have fond memories of going to a Western Bulldogs clinic when I was younger and I took a specky over Chris Grant ," Grant laughed.
"And to now be able to get back to Bendigo with Marcus and give back to the kids is such a great opportunity."
Grant started playing as a junior but then took a 10-year break from the game before returning to the field with the Thunder.
"I learnt so much from all my coaches while I was growing up and when I returned to the game I hadn't lost those skills," Grant said.
"I was able to pick up from where I left off.
"When you're a youngster you learn skills which are the fundamentals of the game."
Active Attitudes founder and director Jordan Doering said the clinic focused on enhancing children's confidence and skills.
"It's all about participation, learning new skills and having some fun," Doering said.
"At the clinic we want to see kids outside running around, and have the unique chance to rub shoulders with some players that have gone all the way within their industry.
"The kids can ask them questions about how they reached the pinnacle of their careers at the highest possible level."
Doering played AFL with Carlton FC and has experience as a VFL coach with North Melbourne.
But above all his main passion is to see children succeed.
"There are so many life pressures these days, especially for kids," Doering said.
"So to be able to get them to come together to participate it will help them build their individual confidence all the while having fun while they do it.
"Also a massive thank you to Nick Carter and the Bendigo Bank as they will be handing out showbags on the day."
The Active Attitudes Bendigo AFL program is open to boys and girls aged 5-12+ and will be held on Wednesday July 3 at the Tom Flood Sports Centre from 9am-3.30pm.
For bookings visit www.activeattitudes.com.au or call Jordan on 0410588800.
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