During his second day in Australia, the Duke of Sussex engaged in a casual kickaround with children and players at the Western Bulldogs’ headquarters, Mission Whitten Oval in Melbourne. Showcasing his football skills, Harry rated himself a “six out of ten,” providing a light-hearted insight into his abilities on the field.
Western Bulldogs players Matthew Kennedy, Tom Liberatore, and Adam Treloar enjoyed some time with the former royal. Kennedy, acknowledging his own starstruck feelings, noted, “I gave him a six out of ten; he’s got room for improvement, but it was really nice chatting – he asked us a lot of questions.” He jested about possibly signing Harry up as a Bulldogs member if the team secures a win in their upcoming game.
Kennedy also presented Harry with a team scarf, which the Duke sported proudly throughout his visit. The pair shared a connection, discussing fatherhood and their children, which Kennedy described as a memorable experience, saying, “You don’t get to do that every day… it’s pretty awesome.”
Treloar, reflecting on the day, initially thought Harry’s visit was a prank until he witnessed the media setting up. He commented on Harry’s surprise at receiving a child’s football, revealing, “He wanted a proper one but took it in stride.”
Harry’s engagement came after he participated in a mental health panel organised by Movember, a Melbourne-based charity. Throughout their stay, he and wife Meghan, Duchess of Sussex, are focusing on initiatives that foster community resilience, support for military personnel, and mental health awareness. This trip marks their first visit back since their royal tour in 2018, and their first trip to Australia since stepping back from royal duties in 2020.
The couple’s itinerary includes time in Canberra, before returning to Melbourne and concluding their visit in Sydney, as they continue to champion important social causes during their whirlwind four-day tour.