Lachlan Mosley
The rippling benefits of grass-roots community sport - SD97
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My son was keen to play football at the local football club. He was 9, and feeling a bit nervous. We went down to pre-season training for the first time and he loved it. At the end of training one of the coaches gathered the parents around and talked about how they would be approaching the season, making sure everyone was included with a focus on fun.
He finished off by saying as they had two teams, and one of the coaches from last year had decided not to continue coaching, they were looking for someone to take his place. I felt my heart race a little, and that familiar feeling I get when I know I want something, but feel reluctant to step forward. Someone who barely new me gave me a prod and whispered that I should put my hand up. And without really knowing what I was stepping into I volunteered to coach the team, and was readily accepted into the role.
What followed was six memorable years of coaching my son’s team, getting to know a bunch of awesome boys, and watching them develop into fine young men. I loved it. I grew as a person. And I had so much fun.
Along the way I met many people at the club, including this week’s guest, Richmond Junior Football Club president Lachlan Mosley. I admire many things about Lachie, some of which come out through this conversation. High on the list his is commitment to getting kids playing sport, something he has a great knack of doing through a combination of persuasion, the art of the possible, and simply not giving up when it seems impossible to get a team on the ground.
There is no doubt Lachlan Mosley with be a life member of RJFC. He has done amazing work, most of which is invisible, to create a thriving club that helps young people develop, brings a diverse community together, and to simply get kids having fun playing sport.
I’ve been wanted to having this char for a long time, and it was excellent to take a moment to sit down at Citizen’s Park and get to know Lachie a little better.
If you enjoyed listening you Lachie you may also enjoy the following episodes:
Jamin Heppell on the positive potential of suburban sporting clubs
Kate Dundas on communities form around unexpected places
David Holmgren on eldership
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