Pies push AFL message in Top End - Herald Sun

[Dale61]

17 June 2002
By Rod McGuirk of AAP

COLINGWOOD arrived in Darwin today to show aspiring Top End footballers what it takes to play in the AFL.

The team has taken advantage of the league's split round to spend four days holding coaching clinics in Top End centres, including remote aboriginal communities.

"We've come to Darwin because we need a bit of sun on our backs and ... it gives us a chance to work with communities and I guess spread the Collingwood word as well," coach Mick Malthouse said.

"We're up the Top End here to visit the communities and see the culture and I'm hoping that the players go back with a greater understanding of the people and where they come from and how they operate."

Collingwood brought with them Territorian Richard Cole, who is playing his first season with the Magpies.

"It's absolutely vital that, with such a great proving ground for players coming to Melbourne and playing, that we give something back to this area," Malthouse said.

"In turn, that may help another footballer change his lifestyle a bit ... and play AFL football."

But he ruled out ever playing a fixture in Darwin, because of the heat, distance and the popularity of Collingwood games in Melbourne.


"Racetracks are for racing, roads are for getting there."