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propertyHome/Local Sport/Local FootyCoach fulfils Coast dreamsBy Andrew MathiesonUpdated October 11 2016 - 11:16pm, first published 10:06amBy Andrew MathiesonUpdated October 11 2016 -

11:16pm, first published 10:06amFacebookTwitterWhatsappEmailCopy The smiles told the story.

Somerset schoolgirls filed off the main court at Launceston’s Silverdome, they got one last glance at their hero.

“Goodbye, gorgeous,” famed Australian defender Sharni Layton winked back.

They giggled some more.

Layton asked the Coastal pupils what they had learned in a grossing two-hour lesson outside the classroom – and they had all the answers.

Coastal principal Matthew Grining pulled off the opportunity of a lifetime when he once met Diamonds coach Lisa Alexander at a principal’s conference on leadership, the pair since

maintaining contact on social media.

The national coach felt an obligation to do “something special”, which included a personal Q-and-A on Skype.

“He had a very keen group of netballers, but particularly from that area of Tassie, it’s hard times economically,” the ex-maths teacher said.

“So that’s always a big thing for me to making sure we are looking after everyone in the community.”

HERO: Australian Diamond Caitlin Thwaites signs an autograph for a fan. ShareFacebookTwitterWhatsappEmailCopyAndrew MathiesonSports JournalistThe day I realised I wasn't good enough to play

for St Kilda or be the No.1 spinner for Australia was when I realised journalism was the closest I could come to follow my passion for sport. And it's not just about the scores for me. It's

the back story behind the game.The day I realised I wasn't good enough to play for St Kilda or be the No.1 spinner for Australia was when I realised journalism was the closest I could come

to follow my passion for sport. And it's not just about the scores for me. It's the back story behind the game.More from AFLBulldogs make call on Luke Beveridge's futureAnna

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