Australia continue to win friends away from spotlight as Leeds students join training session
Leeds Beckett University's rugby league players enjoyed the opportunity of a lifetime on Wednesday when Australia opened the doors to their camp.
The Kangaroos began preparations for Saturday's final Test with a training session at Headingley, in stark contrast to England who will not arrive in Leeds until just before kick-off.
The Leeds Beckett squad – reigning British Universities and College Sport (BUCS) national champions – ran through drills and small-sided games with the tourists, creating lifelong memories.
Full-back Tom Delaney, who also plays for Dewsbury Rams, said: "It was incredible, a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
"I didn't think I'd wake up this morning saying that I scored a hat-trick against the Aussies and had a diving try in the corner over Josh Addo-Carr – but now I can."
The session was organised by former NRL player James Webster, who coached Wakefield Trinity, Hull KR and Featherstone Rovers.
"We're extremely grateful to the Australia team for welcoming our players," said Webster, now a lecturer in sport management at the university's Carnegie School of Sport.
"The fact we're able to offer student experiences like this is another example of how big a player we are in rugby league."
Australia have already won the Ashes series with a game to spare and made new friends off the field with their warm approach to fans and the wider rugby league community.
Winger Addo-Carr has enjoyed every minute of the tour, including Wednesday's session.
"Today has been really good," said the 30-year-old.
"The Leeds Beckett crew were good. They helped us prepare for this game on Saturday and are a good bunch of boys. They've got a bright future.
"Playing here last time was electric. Personally, I'm enjoying every moment. I'm a lot older than I was last time I was here so I'm just counting my blessings."