After dazzling Shepparton onlookers with his skills and supreme athleticism as a junior, Hawthorn’s Jarman Impey is now inspiring the next generation of young stars.
The AFL 200-gamer, a former Bear and Swan, returned to Princess Park last Thursday night to put the next generation of Swans stars through their paces as part of the ‘Born and Bred’ program.
His return to home included a skills session and a Q&A with the gaggle of Swans juniors, which was warmly received by kids and adults alike, according to junior club president Greg Bicknell.
“The buzz around the club was electric,” Bicknell said.
“We had a lot of parents there, which is unreal; normally they'd just sit in their car, but they were out on the ground watching.
“The kids were really excited about it, which was unreal.
“He was so engaging and the kids just flocked to him, even when he joined in with training he was mucking around with the kids a fair bit, and they really loved that.
“Things like this really add to junior sport and the kids get really excited about it.
“When you got nights like that happening, it inspires them to keep going.”
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Shepparton Swans Junior Football Club received a $1000 cheque from Red Energy. Photo by SENImage 2 of 4
Shepparton Swans welcomed a massive turnout for Jarman Impey's return. Photo by SENImage 3 of 4
Youngsters line up for a kicking skills drill. Photo by SENImage 4 of 4
Jarman Impey runs the young Swans through their paces. Photo by SENThe Swans were also the beneficiary of a $1,000 donation from Red Energy, which Bicknell said would go towards the recently green-lit pavilion redevelopment.
Bicknell offered his thanks to it and also SEN.
“SEN Sport Radio and Red Energy sponsored the night,” he said.
“They actually contacted us and asked if we'd participate and we said for sure.
“They handed over a big cheque at the end of the night and that'll go well towards our new rooms when we get them under way.
“It was fantastic that they contacted us and wanted us to participate.”