AFL Hall of Famer Nick Riewoldt expresses frustration with Australia’s junior sports culture after returning from the United States, where his three sons enjoyed a more competitive environment.

Contrasting Experiences in the US and Australia

Riewoldt relocated to Texas in 2023 with his wife and sons James, Will, and Teddy before returning to Melbourne late in 2024. During their time in Houston, the boys thrived in baseball and American football leagues, participating in competitive clubs that emphasized victories.

‘They loved playing American football, they loved playing baseball,’ Riewoldt stated. ‘Kids’ sport over there felt like real sport. The over-emphasis here on participation, and everyone gets a trophy… over there, they keep score, they have ring ceremonies, and the kids love that stuff.’

Now playing under-10s football in Melbourne, his sons miss the intensity and parental enthusiasm from their US experience. ‘We had some of the most incredible sporting experiences over there where all the parents were all in,’ he added. ‘Coming back here, playing under-10s footy and we don’t keep score… my kids don’t resonate with that as much as they did with the sports in the US.’

Advocating for Greater Maturity in Youth Sports

The former St Kilda captain, a five-time All-Australian and record holder for most marks in VFL/AFL history, argues that young athletes deserve more respect. ‘Kids that age should be treated with a bit more maturity,’ Riewoldt said. ‘We don’t want to lose the element of fun and make them get too serious too quickly, but kids know the score, kids keep score. They know exactly at the end of the game whether they’ve won or lost, so why do we pretend like that’s not a thing?’

Support for St Kilda’s Bold Recruiting Strategy

Riewoldt praises his former club’s aggressive pre-season moves. ‘I loved the off-season,’ he commented. ‘When you only have so many levers to pull to change your fortunes, why not be aggressive? The players they’ve invested in—Flanders, De Koning, Nas—have their best football ahead of them. I like the approach, I like the aggressive nature of it.’

Thrilled to Return to AFL Commentary

Back with Channel 7 as an analyst, Riewoldt relishes the role. ‘I love being part of Thursday night footy, the big games, big crowds,’ he said. ‘Despite being out of the game for close to a decade, it’s still a rush to feel the energy when teams run through the banner with a microphone in hand.’