14 August 2026
Our footballers recently enjoyed two unforgettable opportunities to experience elite AFL environments firsthand through Port Adelaide Football Club and the Adelaide Crows.
Port Adelaide held its Captain’s Run on Main Oval on Friday 31 July, with three students fortunate to join the players for a gym session, line meeting and on-field training. The experience provided valuable insight into the preparation, culture and work ethic required to compete at the highest level.
“On Friday, I had the opportunity to train with Port Adelaide, which was an amazing experience and gave me a great insight into what life is like at an AFL club. The day began with a gym session, where I saw the professionalism and intensity that the players bring to every workout. After that, I attended a line meeting with the backline group, where I learned about team structures, communication and the importance of preparation.
“We then finished the day with the Captain’s Run, which showed how the team prepares for game day through drills, strategy and attention to detail. Overall, it was a fantastic experience that taught me a lot about the standards, culture and work ethic required to compete at the highest level.”
Harvey Crane (Year 12)
The Adelaide Crows also generously opened their doors to a group of 27 St Peter’s College footballers on the Club’s main training day. The students observed the level of detail involved in preparing for an AFL training session, witnessed the intensity of the players firsthand and gained insights from coaches, players and staff. They also toured the facilities and heard from old scholar and Adelaide Crows player Billy Dowling (DAC 2022).
“The excursion to the Adelaide Crows’ facilities was a great experience. We had the opportunity to see what an elite environment looks like from the inside and understand what it takes to compete at that level. Hearing from Billy Dowling and others was really inspiring and showed us what can be achieved. Overall, it was a great day and I really enjoyed it.”
Alex Darcey (Year 10)
“Visiting the Adelaide Crows deepened my understanding of an elite football program and the resources required to build a successful AFL side. The standard the players displayed during training was unreal, and I think all the boys were truly blown away.”
Sid Tierney (Year 12)
“As part of the St Peter’s College Football Program, 27 boys attended an excursion to the Adelaide Crows’ training facilities at West Lakes. We had the opportunity to watch the players train, tour their facilities and learn about the work that goes on behind the scenes.
“We also heard from old scholar Billy Dowling, who spoke about game tactics and his journey from St Peter’s College to the AFL. The excursion was an incredible experience that gave everyone a strong understanding of what it takes to be a great player and part of a great team.”
Brayden Carter (Year 11)
We sincerely thank Port Adelaide and the Adelaide Crows for giving our students such inspiring insight into the preparation, teamwork and professionalism behind elite football.
Jimmy Toumpas
Head of Football
