Returning to his hometown of Katherine for the Luke Kelly Cup, South Sydney Rabbitohs Player Well-Being Manager Luke Kelly spoke to Roxanne Fitzgerald from the Katherine Times to chat all things Footy and Country community.
Rugby league star Luke Kelly has given the credit for his success to his family and the Katherine community.
The ex-Rabbitohs player is back in town this week to support young future players at the Luke Kelly Rugby League cup.
Although he comes to town regularly for family visits, this is the first cup Kelly has been to.
"I want to give back as much as I can to the community that gave me so much," he said.
"My dad played locally and coached me, and mum never missed a game, and I can't thank them enough for their support."
Although there were fewer sports opportunities when Kelly was younger, he said, Katherine is in a much better position now.
"It would definitely be possible for kids in Katherine to get noticed with all of the government partnerships happening. Gala events like (The Luke Kelly Cup) just weren't around when I was younger," he said.
"Kids in Katherine love footy and judging by what I've seen today there are some great skills here.
"I'm really impressed by the amount of young girls playing, they've been the standout today. It's been unreal."
Read more on Kelly's return to Katherine here!
By Roxanne Fitzgerald, Katherine Times.