As part of Channel 7’s @Home series – which supports Ladder, the AFL Players’ official charity – St Kilda’s Rhys Stanley opens up about his favourite pastime away from the game.

When he’s not training at Seaford, Stanley assists in giving his retired racehorse Elliot a new lease on life at the Dingley Park Horse Agistment in South Dandenong – a hobby that helps him escape the pressures of being a professional footballer.

“I try to come out here every day, rain, hail or shine,” says Stanley.

“Having a place to feel at home is important, it gives me somewhere to go to relieve the pressures of everyday.

“Having the horse gives me something to earn – I’ve got to earn his trust which is a bit of a challenge, but it is really fun coming out here and spending time with him.”

@AFLPlayers are proud to support Ladder – every time a player runs out onto the field for his team he donates $25 to Ladder. 

As a group, players are committed to helping young people who have been homeless find a place where they feel at home. Join the players in supporting Ladder and match their donation today by clicking here. Together we can help Ladder to end youth homelessness.