The AFL legend and former Carlton, Hawthorn and Fitzroy coach is a renowned motivational speaker, and he will talk about his experiences and achievements in the sporting, academic and business fields.

To go along with his five AFL premierships as player and coach, he has lectured in Sports Coaching and Sports and Exercise Science at Deakin University.

Although Mr Parkin retired from AFL coaching in 2000, he remains a revered figure in the game through his media commitments with Fox Sports and the ABC.

As well as giving a motivational talk on Wednesday night, he will also be interviewed by experienced leadership facilitator Brendan Mason.

The talk and presentation on Wednesday will be the highlight of Mr Parkin and Mr Mason’s two-day visit in the area.

The pair will also be conducting leadership and development sessions during Wednesday and Thursday, with the first sessions commencing around 10am on Wednesday morning at Macorna Hall.

Organiser Pat Quinn says it will be an “opportunity not to be missed” and encourages anyone whether they are “young, middle-aged or retired” to come down and listen to Mr Parkin’s experiences in football and life.

Mr Quinn added that even people that didn’t have a keen interest in football should get along to the evening, or alternatively to some of the sessions during the two days Mr Parkin and Mr Mason are in the area.

“We are all under pressure to achieve in life and you get real inspiration from hearing these guys talk about their own experiences and what they have had to get through to achieve what they have,” Mr Quinn said.

“For anyone that loves football, especially from the 80s and 90s, it would be something you wouldn’t want to miss.”

“David’s (public) appearances are fairly limited these days, so it’s a great opportunity for everyone in the community to come down and be involved.”

The Macorna Football Club will conduct a training session on Wednesday from 5pm, with Mr Parkin expected to be on-hand to give players some expert advice.

A barbecue dinner will be available from 6.30pm, before the official proceedings and presentation will kick off around 7.30pm.

For further information call Pat Quinn on 0427 559 273 or Jo Bear on 5457 8211.