New South Wales and Australia star Kurt Gidley, plus Knights team mates Steve Simpson, Adam McDougall, Wes Naiqama, Richard Fa’aoso, Marvin Karawana and Byron Fruean imparted some valuable life lessons on Wingham High’s young rugby league players.

Students learned about the training and diet regime of a professional league player, as well as the importance of goal-setting and the path that led these Knights players to the top.

The players spoke about their recovery from injuries, the nerves they felt before their debut matches, and the toughest teams they have faced in their careers (the Melbourne Storm was the general consensus here).

Students were also given the chance to ask players questions of their own.

When the talk was finished, kids rushed to meet their heroes face to face and get an autograph.

“The best advice I can give you guys today is never give up,” Kurt Gidley told students.

“No matter how many times you get knocked back - two, three or ten times - just keep trying. Follow your passion and train hard.”

Veteran back Adam McDougall had some sound advice of his own.

“Sixteen and seventeen are tough ages,” he said.

“There are obviously a lot of outside influences that come with this age, be it alcohol, drugs or whatever.

“But it is all about life choices. Whether your dream is to become a good footballer, or to get a good mark in your HSC, it all comes down to you.”

More photos inside