Newly installed CEO Lawrie McKinna endorsed the visit and, along with first team (assistant) coach, Luciano Trani made the short trip from their Hunter base and into the warm embrace of the expectant attendees.

All local clubs, from Bulahdelah in the south to Moorland in the north, and out west to Gloucester, were invited to nominate an under 18 player to participate in a demonstration training session, conducted at Aub Ferris field.

Coach Trani put the squad through exercises aimed at giving the young aspirants a terrific experience as well as providing instruction to the local coaches interested in seeing how a professional coach does it.

All in attendance were invigorated by the experience.

From the playing fields, the evening moved to the Nabiac Hotel where CEO McKinna shared a meal with 60 keen football fans.

McKinna regaled the crowd with tales of his time as Central Coast Mariners coach.

When asked about the key to his success at the Mariners and if that could be replicated at the Jets, he answered “by engaging with people”.

He also quickly pointed out how well the kids had done earlier, saying that there “were a few very decent players”.

Perhaps one or two to look out for!

The most powerful part of the night was when McKinna spoke of his recent time as Mayor of Gosford as he offered advice as to how the local football community can get better and more equitable access to public funding for much needed facility improvements right across the region.