The importance of understanding club culture and leaving a strong legacy has been delivered to the next generation of Manly Warringah Sea Eagles players.
As part of an exciting initiative driven by new Sea Eagles NRL Coach Anthony Seibold, young and new Manly players are undergoing a dedicated program called Eagle Hearts.
Held twice a week during the pre-season, the Eagle Hearts program will run over a period of months with an aim to create an understanding of the club’s history and its role to the community, the expectations of a high performing athlete, mental skills, as well as some team principals.
Led by Steven Hales, the players received a valuable video presentation showcasing Manly’s proud history from grand final victories and greatest players.
They also heard talks from Sea Eagles CEO Tony Mestrov, current full-back Tom Trbojevic, and two-time premiership great Steve Menzies, about what it means to be a Manly player and the importance of making the most of your opportunities.
When I pull on the Manly jersey, it means I am representing my family and the community
Tom Trbojevic
“It’s pretty special to me and it’s what still drives me today. I never take for granted wearing the Manly jersey because I know of the people who came before me, and what a proud history and culture this club has.
“The players who came before me left a great legacy and I want to do the same.”
Menzies spoke to the group about the importance of a strong club culture.
“The culture this club breeds is as good as any club in the NRL. Culture is why you win games. You build your culture each day you are together through training and playing,’’ Menzies said.
Eagle Hearts Program
“Each and every one of you players have a choice about how you train, how you perform on and off the field, and where your journey is going to start and where it is going to end.
“What is your role in this club? What will be your legacy? You will all have that opportunity. I hope you take it.”
Mestrov told the playing group to 'seize the moment' now.
“You can’t let your opportunity go. Listen to everything the coaches tell you and do it. Work hard and don’t rest on your laurels,'' Mestrov said.
“In 20 years when you look back, you want to be able to say I am so proud I did that, and I am so proud of my career.
“Manly is all about success. Don’t let your opportunity go because you will regret it.”
