SUPPORTING your classmates and having a strong work ethic were the core messages delivered by Manly Sea Eagles' star forwards Brenton Lawrence and Josh Starling, who visited South Dubbo High School on Tuesday.
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The two NRL players, who will be visiting schools in central and far western New South Wales over the coming days, talked to the students about what has helped them rise to the top level of an ultra competitive sport, and how these values can help the students achieve their goals both at school and in other areas.
The anti-bullying message was conveyed strongly, as was the importance to work hard in the classroom, on the sports field, be healthy and have persistence to achieve your dreams as things won't come easily.
Lawrence, who played the opening game of the NRL season before injury ruled him out indefinitely, believes doing the little things right is the most important thing in a teenagers life.
"Working hard at school, exercise and being healthy are all important to a good lifestyle and happy life," Lawrence said.
"No matter what it is, whether it be in the classroom or on the sporting field, you need to keep chipping away at achieving your goal.
"No one is going to give you anything so you need to go out there and earn it for yourself."
Lawrence was impressed with the kids he met at South Dubbo High.
"They're good kids here and its great to come to the country areas to visit them," Lawrence said.
"They wouldn't get as much exposure to NRL players as kids in Sydney so its great we can make trips like this."
South Dubbo High relieving deputy principal Dianne Baker believes the visit will have a positive impact on the students.
"They (Lawrence and Starling) supported the message we give to the students," Baker said.
"They spoke about their careers and how hard they have worked to achieve what they have so hopefully that will encourage the kids to keep working hard at school and outside of school."
Despite the Sea Eagles currently sitting second last on the NRL ladder, Lawrence is optimistic they have the talent and belief in the club to still make something of their season and play finals footy.
"You don't win competitions at this stage of the year," Lawrence said.
"We have had a few injuries and when we get some players back we know we can turn it around.
"It's a strong club with a lot of pride and everyone is working hard to turn this season around and have some strong performances."
