13 hours ago, Lucifer's Hero said:

Interesting story about how trust and bonds have been built.  Starting by Goodwin revealing a lot about himself to the players, similar to what Hardwick did at the beginning of last season.

http://www.afl.com.au/news/2018-09-20/gambling-family-issues-more-goodwin-tells-all

Described by Melksham thus:  "For him [Goodwin] to open up like that shows a fair bit of courage, but also shows just how much he trusts the group, and so many players benefit from that...There's been a lot of other coaches and players who have got up and spoken similarly to the group. Most of us did it." 

Hibberd: "I feel like it's bonded us as tight as I couldn't even imagine. Guys I didn't know that well at the end of last year, I feel like I've got tight bonds with those guys now, so it's been a good year." 

Also interesting that Jim Plunkett (General Manager - People and Cultures) who runs the sessions sits on the bench on game days, similar to Richmonds 'mindfulness' coach.

Hard as nails on field.  Very human off field.  Easy to see how Esprit de corps is being built.

There's a lot to be said for accepting your vulnerability, putting aside your ego etc. Everyone has vulnerabilities, while the old "macho" culture will tell you they are a sign of weakness and you should bury them acknowledging them and being open about them in fact make you a mentally stronger person.

1 hour ago, Dr. Gonzo said:

There's a lot to be said for accepting your vulnerability, putting aside your ego etc. Everyone has vulnerabilities, while the old "macho" culture will tell you they are a sign of weakness and you should bury them acknowledging them and being open about them in fact make you a mentally stronger person.

Absolutely, but most say things publicly (talk the talk), and then attack others for opening up and sharing... this is the zenith of abuse and negativity.

 

It makes you mentally stronger as a person, IF the community hearing, accept understand it and show their caring & repectfulness.

If not, then it can even get to be life threatening.

Sadly there is far too much immaturity out there.