Last week Nick Blakey paid a visit to his junior club, East Sydney Bulldogs, accompanied by teammates James Rowbottom and Lewis Melican, to inspire the next generation of footballers in Sydney. 

The importance of connecting with local youth was not lost on Blakey as he reflected on his time as a junior footballer. 

“I think it's really important. I remember when I was a kid and running around and you see the older boys come down and AFL players in general, and you just want to be like them,” Blakey said.

“You get to see the players up close and personal that you watch on your TV. You go to the games every week to see them and have a conversation with them.

“Now I’m in a position to inspire the next generation, which is pretty cool.”

During the visit the Swans players were interviewed by the kids and parents, and signed plenty of autographs.

Blakey said the interactions are mutually beneficial for players and children.

“As players we get a lot out of it as well, seeing all the smiles on the little kids faces, it's a nice way to finish the day,” he said. 

“They're only young, but to ask some funny questions and just have a laugh and get to know each other is always fun.” 

Blakey has witnessed the growth of AFL in Sydney first hand, having moved to the Harbour City as a six-year-old before completing his schooling in Sydney’s eastern suburbs. In particular, he has had a front row seat to the growing crowds at the SCG which saw more than 500,000 people through the gates for Swans games last season.

“Growing up in Sydney, seeing what it was like when I started playing football to what it is now, it's grown so much and it's only going to get bigger,” he said.

“The city really gets behind us and there's no better place to play footy than a packed SCG.”