UPDATE: In a powerful message to parents, former Australian rules footballer Adrian Barich emphasizes the critical importance of teaching kids how to handle failure. Speaking to the community of Perth following an emotional Grand Final weekend, Barich calls for a shift in perspective on failure, highlighting its role in personal development.
Barich’s address comes on the heels of the highly publicized Brownlow Night, where elite athlete Nick Daicos faced disappointment after another near-win. “It’s time to embrace failure as a stepping stone to success,” Barich stated, urging parents to guide their children through the emotional turmoil of losing.
During his reflection on the 1991 Grand Final, where his team, the West Coast Eagles, faced a crushing defeat at the MCG, Barich shared the raw emotions of loss that resonate with young athletes today. “Losing on the biggest day of your life stings like nothing else,” he noted, drawing parallels to the feelings experienced by children in sports and academics alike.
Barich’s advice comes at a time when up to 4 million people were glued to their screens during the Grand Final, with an audience of nearly 100,000 at the stadium. “Kids need to understand that failure is not a dirty word,” he emphasized. “It’s part of life, like the sausage sizzle at Bunnings.”
In a compelling narrative, Barich recounts his own blunders on the field, including a cringe-worthy moment at the MCG that nearly went viral. “Even legends stuff up,” he said, reinforcing that everyone—regardless of skill level—experiences setbacks. He quoted basketball legend Michael Jordan, who famously said, “I’ve failed over and over and over again in my life. And that is why I succeed.”
Barich pointed out that losing while doing everything right is a common experience, as seen with Nick Daicos’ recent loss despite three stellar seasons. “Sometimes someone else gets the ribbon, and all you can do is smile and say ‘well done,’ even if you feel like flipping the table,” he added.
The urgency of Barich’s message resonates deeply: “Failure isn’t the opposite of success; it’s part of it.” By instilling resilience in children, parents can help them navigate life’s challenges. “It’s about teaching them what to do with it,” he urged, highlighting the importance of response over the loss itself.
Next time your child faces disappointment, Barich advises parents to acknowledge their feelings rather than dismiss them. “Don’t say, ‘It’s OK.’ Instead, say, ‘I know that hurt. But guess what? We’re not done,’” he suggested.
As the community reflects on the lessons from this week, Barich’s call to action stands clear: Failure is not just an obstacle; it is the training ground for greatness. Parents are encouraged to foster resilience in their children, ensuring they are equipped to bounce back stronger from setbacks.
As Barich concluded, “At the end of the day, footy is a game, life is long, and failure is just part of the journey.” In a world filled with challenges, this perspective could be the key to raising strong, resilient individuals ready to face whatever comes next.
