Students in BSSC’s Athlete Development Program and VET Sport and Recreation had a conversation with Glenn Manton this morning.
Teacher, author, keynote speaker, former professional sportsperson, father, mentor—Glenn has experienced many things in his life—and career—and dedicates his time to not only sharing his stories with audiences, but connecting with them to find out their stories, too.
With no time to waste, today’s discussion with BSSC students not only covered sports—of which many students in the group wish to pursue on a professional level—but also topics such as relationships, vulnerability, losing family members, communication, success and stepping outside of your comfort zone.
One particular story Glenn shared was about the time he met Alec ‘The Kookaburra’ Epis.
His encounter with Epis at the 1993 grand final— when Glenn played footy for Essendon but missed out on being selected to play in the grand final—changed Glenn’s life forever.
“He handed me a piece of paper with his number on it and said, ‘Call me if you want to become a better footballer and person’,” Glenn reflects.
Taken aback by the bizarre encounter, Glenn reluctantly made the phone call and, the following Wednesday, met The Kookaburra at a park in Moonee Ponds to train (and get yelled at for rocking up late!).
That fateful encounter led to a life-changing experience for young Glenn—who continued to meet up with his newfound mentor for training every week for nine years.
Alec ‘The Kookaburra’ Epis became a mentor, encourager, and extremely close friend. That relationship taught Glenn so much about himself, and others.
“He did what he said he would: he helped me become a better footballer and person.”
Glenn encouraged today’s students to make the most of the situations they are in—and acknowledged that everyone has hard things they have to deal with, but being open, honest and forming meaningful connections with other people will help them through.
“You’ve got one life.”
Glenn—and the students present—displayed great vulnerability as they shared stories and asked big questions.
We thank Glenn for starting important conversations at BSSC today.
