Since a distressing video of nine-year-old Jarmiles Gardiner in tears after experiencing racism at a local football training went viral, support has poured in from across the country.
After the incident the Sydney Swans, through their First Nations strategy and player development manager, Jarred Hodges, a proud Gwamu and Kooma man, reached out to Jarmiles' club, the Maitland Saints to offer assistance.
After discussions with Saints President Matt Norris, Hodges arranged a healing process that included a special trip to the the SCG for the recent Sydney v Geelong blockbuster on June 9.
For many of the kids and their families, it was their first experience of a live AFL game.
"Initial reactions from all the kids and parents was 'it was the best day ever and they'll never forget it,'" Mr Norris said.
"Jarmiles, his family and all involved said how good it was.
"Jarmiles was at training last week and played on the weekend and had another friend that signed up, which is another positive.
"We're looking to move forward and let the kids be good and get back to playing football."
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The team left Maitland at 9:30am and arrived at Swans HQ by noon.
They participated in a skills clinic and attended a session on respectful relationships.
Swans players Callum Mills, Sam Reid, Robbie Fox, and Angus Sheldrick spoke about the qualities of a good team and teammates, highlighting the importance of building a supportive and inclusive team environment.
"Once I knew the facts, it was putting something together, particularly from a cultural lens that could assist in the healing process," Mr Hodges said.
"Following cultural ways, that's something that would include everyone from the team.
"Because not only does this affect Jarmiles, but the ripple effect is felt far and wide."
"We spoke about the importance of connection and their exercise was to get three mates and to come up with a unique handshake for each mate," Mr Hodges said.
"So these kids will get to training and have their three buddies they have a handshake with and already be connected."
Jarmiles received a signed 2024 Indigenous jumper and a game ball from the Marngrook game.
It was also announced that he would run out onto the field with the Swans, selecting five teammates to join him as part of the guard of honour.
The team enjoyed the Swans v Geelong game in front of a sellout crowd and were invited into the change rooms to meet the players after the Swans' win.
Jarmiles and his teammates even got to sing the team song.
Creating a stronger team environment was a big focus for the Swans and the Saints moving forward.
"We've got such a positive outcome because we dealt with what's a serious and sensitive issue, but we've dealt with it to make sure the kids can walk away with something," Mr Hodges said.
Jarmiles' mother said he had the best day and is now looking forward to returning to training and playing this week.
