Micky O launches new book at SCG
By Ashley Stewart
A decorated list of members from the AFL community gathered at the SCG this week to celebrate the book launch of MICKY O. Hard work. Determination. And a little bit of magic, the story of Sydney Swans legend Michael O’Loughlin.
The book, which relives O’Loughlin’s early days to becoming one of the clubs greatest players and one of only two Swans to have reached 300 games at the club, is a compelling acknowledgment to one of Sydney’s greatest AFL heroes.
Paying tribute to his close friend, Paul Roos spoke of O’Loughlin the player, the cool kid at the club that everyone wanted to be friends with.
“We wanted Mick to respect us and we wanted Mick to like us because he’s such a good guy.” Roos said.
“He loved the game, he was a leader because he loved the game … he’s such a fantastic person, such a fantastic player and we’re just so, so lucky to have him as part of our footy club.”
The Bloods were well represented at the event, joined by the Swans playing group and club staff, as well as several players from across town rivals the GWS GIANTS who were coached by O’Loughlin during their time in the AIS Academy.
O’Loughlin who now works for AFL as the AIS AFL High Performance Coach was gracious in his thanks to those who had helped him during his career, after what had begun as very rocky journey.
”I grew up in a pretty rough neighbourhood and a lot of friends and family are really battling,” he said. ”I wouldn’t change my upbringing but things I’ve learnt here about hard work and that if you really strive and want something bad enough, you can do it if you put your head down and bum up.”
”This club has done everything for me. I’ve met some great people here, I think everything I’ve learnt as an adult has been here,” he said.
MICKY O. Hard work. Determination. And a little bit of magic. Is now available for sale and can be purchased online
here.
