West Coast Eagles players and staff were given a heroes welcome when they visited Busselton and Dunsborough this week.
Fans flocked to have a kick with the stars at a public footy clinic on Tuesday, and lined up to get their memorabilia signed.
A panel event at Busselton Football and Sportsman’s Club was also well attended.
On Wednesday, the team held a special schools event.
Students had a chance to play games, learn skills and have mini training sessions with players.
Recently re-signed captain Shannon Hurn said it was exciting to visit regional communities.
“It’s great to get down here and see the kids, they don’t always get to come up to watch us train or play so it’s good to have a chat, share some knowledge and put a smile on the face of the kids and community in general,” he said.
He said a lot of AFL and AFLW talent came from the country and it was important youth knew about the pathways to reach the top level.
“(At the Community Camps) you get to see numerous talent, sporting, academic, and you can be just as talented from here as those in the city,” he said.
“I think the AFL and the WAFL have done really well in getting development officers and coaches in the regions.
“At eight to 12, kids just want to play footy and have fun. That’s how I think it should be and when they are older they can move in to the programs.”
