[youtube http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IRvARbdeJms&w=560&h=315]

You will recall that at the McMillan Dinner on this year’s ANZAC Friendship Weekend, we auctioned a footy signed by Sydney Swans’ superstar, Adam Goodes, for Water Safety Vietnam. We also auctioned a jumper of Adam’s for the Christchurch fundraiser.

Last month, of course, Eddie McGuire made the King Kong gaffe about Goodes. While we knew Goodes was extremely upset, we didn’t really hear from him as to why he was so upset.

Mike Sheehan, in June last year (the year of the Swans’ premiership), interviewed Adam Goodes in Open Mike. In that interview the man who The Age ranked as the 10th most influential person in the AFL (the highest ranked player), speaks about many things including racism in footy. Incidentally, Goodes praises Eddie McGuire for his efforts to stamp out racism in footy.

It’s a fascinating insight into this man and gives a much deeper understanding of what happened last month.

Goodes’ leadership position is most impressive.

Last year, the Sydney Swans’ Fan Development Executive, Mick Martin visited Vietnam. One of the things he mentioned was what a giant of a man Goodes is.

MArtin said that people just gravitate towards Goodes. At pre season, the players all work super hard in the heat. Afterwards, the fans will ask for autographs. Most of the players will sign a few and then escape. But not Goodes. He keeps on signing and signing. He just keeps on putting in.

There is also some discussion about the Sydney Swans’ Bloods culture.

It’s an awesome interview and a fascinating insight into why some people soar on and off the field.