Three greats of rugby league, who have collectively won grand finals, stared in State of Origin and representative Australia.

And you know what? They were all in Bathurst on Thursday.

Mark Gasnier, Brett Finch and Greg Alexander, alongside Fox League hosts Jessica Yates and James Rochford, were in Bathurst as a part of Fox Sports’ Full-On Footy Tour.

While they discussed their careers and goal-setting with students from Kelso High students, the players also participated in a footy coaching clinic, sharing their knowledge and skills with Eglinton Junior Rugby League Club.

Alexander, a Penrith Panthers legend and grand final win his club, understands how special an opportunity like Thursday was for many rural kids, who may not usually get the opportunity to see their stars and attend NRL matches.

“The fact that they don’t get a chance to go to the footy as much as city kids, so any chance is great.” he said. 

“Today we spoke more about dreams and aspirations,” he said. 

“It wasn’t necessarily about rugby league but I enjoyed it. The footy clinic was a great opportunity to pass on some tips. 

“It’s always good to come out to country areas. Being a Penrith boy, I’ve done this for the past 25 years, making country trips. I know just how many great fans of the game live out here.”

As well as commentating for Fox Sports, Alexander sits on on the Penrith Panthers’ board of directors so he is fully aware of the strong relationship the Panthers have with Bathurst and the Central West.

He said it’s a great initiative and hopes more NRL clubs can embrace a relationship with a rural area.

“It’s a great partnership Panthers have got with some of our country centres, hosting regular clinics and training sessions here. I think that will help Country Rugby League and country boys can see a pathway into the NRL,” he said. 

“There’s been a debate about Country Rugby League and the strength of it for a decade now, that Country Rugby League is not what it used to be and it certainly needs some help. 

“Hopefully through the help of clubs, not just Penrith, but all the clubs in Sydney can adopt areas in the country and provide some assistance that Country Rugby League needs.” 

He said the more clubs that come out to help Country Rugby League areas the better. 

“I think that helps the kids identify with so Sydney clubs,” Alexander said. 

“The more the [NRL players’] faces are seen and games that come out here, that will strengthen the game out here.”

Kelso High students were also treated to the cool and calm commentary skills of school captain Jay Webber.

With the footage of the match-equalling try from the 2015 NRL grand final between Brisbane Broncos and Nroth Queensland Cowboys playing, Webber called the try in cool and confident as Kyle Fedlt placed the ball done for a four-pointer.

“Try. Three letters, four points,” Webber said.

Alexander liked his confidence. 

“I might pass it on to Andrew Voss or Warren Smith,” he said.