On the eve of his second season at Metricon Stadium, dashing defender Sean Lemmens has praised the impact of the recent AFL Indigenous All Stars camp.
 
The 20-year-old burst onto the scene last season, playing 18 games to exceed expecations in his debut year.
 
Lemmens was one of five Gold Coast players to participate in the week long camp in Western Australia, along with Jack Martin, Jarrod Harbow, Jarrod Garlett and Timmy Sumner, as well as SUNS assistant coach Andy Lovell who coached the side.
 
The camp culminated with a game against the West Coast Eagles at Perth’s Medibank Stadium; an experience Lemmens explained as a great opportunity to learn off some experienced players he has looked up to.
 
“It would have to be the highlight of my career to date,” Lemmens told the Gold Coast Bulletin.
 
“To be among so many Indigenous players I’ve looked up to and see the way they prepare was a great experience.”

VIDEO: See what Andy Lovell had to say following the AFL Indigenous All Stars camp
 
An element of the camp was educational with the AFL Players Association consulting the playing group on a variety of matters ranging from financial independence to post-football career advice.
 
The cultural experience of the camp encompassed a visit to Rottnest Island – the setting of an Aboriginal penal settlement for almost 100 years in the 1800’s.
 
Lemmens admitted the overall experience of the camp was fulfilling and he departed with fond memories.
 
“Some people look at the camp as a bit of a holiday, but getting in touch on the cultural side was rewarding,” he said.