SINCE walking through the doors of IKON Park at the end of 2018, Mitch McGovern has always loved the passion of the football club towards the Carlton Respects initiative.

That has only grown since becoming a father.

For the third consecutive year, McGovern ventured down to a primary school in Melbourne’s north - on this occasion, Coburg Primary - alongside teammate Sam Walsh to give the students the surprise of a lifetime.

Facilitating chats around inclusivity and breaking down gender stereotypes, McGovern has thrived in the space, also featuring on the Carlton Respects: Road to Respect digital learning platform.

Speaking to media from the classroom on Tuesday, McGovern said being a role model in the community - plus now being a father to two young kids - has always meant he wants to do better.

“Even when I got to the footy club, it was a massive topic for us. Those who represent the footy club feel really strongly about it — not only them, but us as players as well,” McGovern said.

“If it’s something we can do with our platform, who we are and the position we’re in with how we can help and educate . . . it starts with these kids behind us, it’s really important.”

McGovern reiterated the sentiment of AFL Senior Coach Michael Voss earlier in the week, with the Blues striving for “generational change” which starts in the classroom.

“We’re educating them that stereotypes, domestic violence, it’s just not right no matter where you are in society and who you are. We’re trying to break down barriers and stereotypes, trying to educate and initiate some pretty powerful things across society, particularly in Australia.

“It starts with them. The more knowledge they have around it, we can educate them, they can educate others and we can be better for it as a society.”