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Former AFL star Steve Alessio joins us for an eye-opening chat about his fascinating journey with the Essendon Football Club and beyond. Discover how Steve transitioned to be an AFL premiership player in 2000, and hear about his once-in-a-lifetime experience participating in the Sydney 2000 Olympic Games torch relay. Steve provides a unique perspective on the dramatic shift in AFL during the 90s from semi-professional to professional, sharing insights into how players and clubs navigated these changes.

Athlete transition is never simple, and Steve candidly discusses the challenges faced by sports professionals as they move beyond the field. We unravel the importance of athlete support programs and the role of collective bargaining in securing better benefits like study opportunities and time off. Through personal stories and reflections, Steve touches on the psychological and future-planning support that athletes receive, questioning if these programs truly prepare them for life after sports. The conversation underscores the need for comprehensive education and career planning for athletes, ensuring they have the tools to thrive in their post-sporting lives.

A strong team culture can make all the difference, and Steve reminisces about the unique environment at Essendon, where leadership and camaraderie were paramount. From anecdotes about running a pizza shop to celebrating the achievements of Netball star Liz Watson, we explore the importance of a well-rounded life. We highlight how Essendon nurtured young talent with humor and discipline, and how seizing opportunities led to unexpected success. Together, we celebrate the extraordinary skills of footy legends like Mark Mercuri and Gary Ablett, leaving listeners with a renewed appreciation for the game and the remarkable individuals who define it.

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