Thrive's exclusive tour of Collingwood Football Club with legend Nathan Buckley

With pens down in the office by midday, the Melbourne Thrivers were keen to hit the road and experience a one-of-a-kind opportunity, one you can only get by pulling a few special strings. AFL politics aside, excitement brewed as we waited to rub shoulders with a certain sporting legend who had stories to tell and wisdom to bestow, with some laughs along the way.

Humble, embarrassed and keen to delve into the pressures of sporting glory, Nathan Buckley got real with the Melbourne team and his longtime friend, Leilani. Sharing an unmatched history with a room of wide-eyed comms kids and clients alike who were enjoying their excursion from the office, Nathan told tales of everything from his years in the NT to his tenure at one of the most prestigious clubs in AFL history, Collingwood FC. An unexpected point of conversation was the selfless intricacies of leadership and the emotional turmoil that comes with the pressure of a million eyes peering down on your performance.

As Nathan took us through the items in his Collingwood exhibition at AIA, his pride evidently lay with his painted portrait that stood powerfully on a wall beside his Brownlow. An imposing reflection of years of strength, dedication, and love for what he does. "I would've done it for free," he told us.

Telling of the cultural connections that branch from the talent at Thrive, it was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to connect with a sporting legend who can share the emotional journey that comes with pursuing passions for a lifetime of success.

By Mackenzie Simes

PR Consultant