Andrew Swallow
Drugs and football are enemies, according to high-profile Australian Rules footballer Andrew Swallow. “The mix doesn’t make sense,” he says. His sport has been rocked by allegations of drug taking over the last few years, but Swallow says there’s no way he’s getting involved.
Andrew is in his third season with the Kangaroos (North Melbourne) in the AFL after being drafted as an 18-year-old from juniors in Western Australia.
“I’ve decided not to go towards drugs or get involved with any of that just because I believe that it’s no good for your body, especially when you’re trying to perform at the highest level. It doesn’t give you the best recovery or allow you to train at your best, so I wouldn’t even think of it.”
His club has a ‘no tolerance to drugs’ policy – an added incentive for players to stay away from temptation. Andrew has also discovered other temptations for a young player at the top of his game.
“There are added pressures when you’re going out and people are around. You know you probably get more attention from the girls and you just have to learn to deal with it.”
Andrew’s Christian upbringing has helped. He studies at Rehoboth Christian High School in Perth from Year 8 to 12. He attends a church and home group in Melbourne on a regular basis. His Christianity gives him “a hope; something to look forward to now and after this life.”
“I always wanted to play football, probably since I was 12 or 13. I’m lucky enough to be still doing that now. I hope my Christian life will be able to impact a few people o the way.”
It does. Team mates ask questions. He keeps prepared with answers he hopes will be helpful. He’s a regular Bible reader. “That’s how you walk through life. It continually gives you revelations and guides you.”
Although West Aussie by birth, Melbourne is home for the moment. “I’m pretty happy where I am at the moment. Unless the Kangaroos want to get rid of me, I’ll stay around.”
Andrew’s most memorable moments playing with the Kangaroos? “Obviously, my debut – I was lucky enough to be back in Perth against Freo (Fremantle) – probably when I kicked a goal that won us the game – and winning a final against Hawthorn.”
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