Outer East league: Kevin Sheedy’s unforgettable advice to local footy side

AFL legend Kevin Sheedy revealed some secrets to success to an Outer East league side in a heartfelt pre-game address on Saturday.

Kevin Sheedy speaks to Yarra Glen's players on Saturday. Pic: Supplied

When Kevin Sheedy speaks, footballers listen.

That was definitely the case at Yarra Glen on Saturday when the AFL legend gave the River Pigs a pre-game rev-up.

The four-time premiership coach was at the Outer East league club as part of First Nations Round.

“He was upbeat, funny at times,” Yarra Glen coach Dean Williams said.

“There was zero noise for the 10 minutes. He held the whole room.”

Sheedy’s message to Yarra Glen’s players was to be pro-active in everything they do on-field.

“He said it all comes down to attitude,” Williams said.

“Even little things like never, ever leave the ball for an umpire to pick up, or the opposition.

“He said you always pick it up because you control the game. He said you pick up the ball, you give it to the umpire — you don’t get a stat — but they’re the little things that you take control…it’s attitude and preparation.”

Kevin Sheedy speaks to Yarra Glen’s players and officials on Saturday. Picture: Supplied

Sheedy told the players said failing was part of the game and the most important thing was to learn from it.

“He said you will fail across the journey but that will then teach you how to be more prepared next time mentally,” Williams said.

Yarra Glen had a Welcome to Country and a smoking ceremony before the senior match.

Yarra Glen’s senior side lost to Yarra Junction by 26 points, but the Pigs’ reserves broke through for their first win of the season, delighting Sheedy.

Williams said Sheedy urged the players to “really enjoy your time with your mates”.

“He said it’s more the bond and relationships you build for life,” he said.