From the desk of Roland Rocchiccioli

At school, football was not my sport-of-first-choice. I was too skinny; too self-conscious. Paradoxically, it has played a major part in my career. The years on the AFL Footy Show changed the colour of my life — for the better!

Football is a wonderful game — especially around Grand Final. It is difficult to imagine anyone saying: “I’m not interested.”

Watching the élite, young men and women with their finely honed bodies is tantamount to watching the Gods at play! At its best, it resembles an unchoreographed ballet. Football knows no social barriers. It is a common meeting-ground; a social leveller. It bridges gaps and provides a platform for easy conversation, irrespective of socio-economic milieu, age, or education.

More seriously, it provides for those with less certain social skills an opportunity to be part of a committed, supportive community; to feel valued. A Sherrin football does not recognise colour, creed, race, gender, or sexuality. Football’s important psychological significances should not be underestimated. The AFL’s inclusive commercials are to be applauded. The YouTube extended version of: “This isn’t country footy, this is footy country,” with its cast reminiscent of Mad Max, delivers a potent, comedic message. When Mick mutters: “Forfeit, my arse,” she encapsulates the determined-to-have-a-go spirit of Australian sport. Another advertisement focuses on the indispensable, volunteer community, and without whom children’s weekend games would disappear.

Soon after arriving in Ballarat, Victoria Police Acting-Superintendent, Jason Templar, undertook, as part of a police community engagement programme, a regional weekend visit to several sporting events. He was, as it transpires, so mightily impressed, he wrote, later: “As the fog cleared, and the unfamiliar sight of the sun returned to the Central Highlands, I drove through the gates of the Avoca Football & Netball Club to be greeted by the welcoming face of the entry gate volunteer, an elderly gentleman, better pictured riding-high on his Massey Ferguson tractor sowing this year’s crop; indeed, that is probably where he needed to be.

“Stepping out of the car, the smell of Dencorub, hot food, and an open-fire jostled for supremacy of the senses! Looking around, I observed small children hugging cups of hot chips, and club officials and volunteers working feverishly to ensure every aspect of managing a large community event had been covered. The whistles of umpires, and cheering of the crowd, echoed across the ground from simultaneous games of netball and football. Neither more patronaged, nor important, than the other.

“All generations of community were equally represented and engaged. The spectacle of sport their common connection, it became abundantly clear that sport itself was not the only commonality here. As I listened intently to the many discussions occurring around me, I realised a sense of connectedness and purpose was the real reason this community came together.

“Throughout the day, I would see the same theme played-out across each of the four communities I visited. For me, the day ended reflecting on Vicpol’s own mission and purpose as an organisation; serving the community by building trust, and sharing a common purpose of safety and inclusiveness. What better opportunity to proactively engage with public than visiting places which generate conversation?”

Put simply, football provides an even playing field — an opportunity for all to participate; to be part of a tangible spirit of community — which is what we need! Most importantly, it teaches young men and women the value of participation.

Roland joins Brett Macdonald radio 3BA 10.45 Monday morning. Contact [email protected].