An extended trip this year had the CJFC Year 10 boys take on Melbourne for 9 days of fun, some long days with a lack of sleep, plenty of laughs and the opportunity to get to know each other better than before made the trip a huge success.
Saturday was a long day with a 6 am departure culminating in an NRL game on Saturday night, most had never even considered going to the Rugby but all thoroughly enjoyed the new experience although struggling with the rules.
Sunday Carlton V Richmond at the G, a good crowd and the Blues did not disappoint, for some boys, it was the first time at the G and what a memorable experience it was.
Monday was meant to be a quiet day, who knew 15 year old boys enjoyed shopping so much with time spent rummaging through Melbournes' fashion stores? The evening, however, was another new experience with a Kayaking tour of the Yarra, whilst hesitant at first, all boys admitted it was a great way to see Melbourne and enjoyed themselves.
Tuesday had the boys split into 6 teams and sent out into Melbourne on a scavenger hunt, this team-building exercise was a great success and allowed the Chaperones some downtime whilst we tracked them from afar.
Wednesday another new experience with a Street Art Tour, I was surprised how many boys knew who Banksy was and even recognised some of his art hidden amongst the laneways. The tour culminated with the boys being able to try their hand at street art, some proved quite artistic whilst however all got involved in the spirit of it and had a go.
Thursday The South Melbourne JFC hosted us the boys for a Scratch Match, the game was played under lights with the temperature dipping to 2 degrees. The game was played in great spirits and a new relationship was forged for future travelling parties.
Friday brought about a genuine highlight for the boys, the club had planned a tour of GMHBA Stadium for the boys however what they did not know was that Carines very own Mitch Duncan was to be our tour guide, there were looks of excitement and disbelief when Mitch came out to greet us. What proceeded was a tour of the player's facilities including the opportunity to use the warm-up area for a lick of the footy, these are memories that are etched in forever and we can not thank the Geelong FC and Mitch Duncan enough for their hospitality.
Friday night back to the G, a full house for Pies V Bombers, what a game what a feeling and what a finish.
Saturday back down to Geelong which for many will be the highlight of the trip, once again the Geelong FC have gone above and beyond and allowed the boys to be a part of the Guard of Honour before the game, the feeling of standing on the ground listening to the crowd is hard to explain. Both Mark Blicavs and Mitch Duncan headed straight for the boys out of the race, high fives all around before they crashed through the banner and what a game they put on for us or so the boys say.
Sunday one last long day, the sun finally came out for the Dees V Eagles game and whilst the G appeared almost empty compared to the other days it was still a great end to a fantastic adventure.
