At a time when negativity pervades our lives, watching athletes make someone’s day is a joyous occasion that deserves to be recognised.

The beaming grin on Milli Lucas’s face as she walked around Optus Stadium was matched by only one other person on Saturday – Nat Fyfe.

Fyfe has known Milli for years. Way before the public understood her challenges.

That’s why when he hugged her after the pre-game toss, the moment was real.

Post-game, when other players were running around the ground celebrating with fans like they do after every win, Fyfe was with Milli. When the players sang the team song, Fyfe had Milli next to him.

Don't miss the latest sports news! Was $13 now $7 per week for 12 weeks* (Digital + Print) Enjoy unlimited access to thewest.com.au and everyday digital editions on any device. Thursday - Monday papers home delivered with all of the latest footy news! *T&Cs apply

And after the post-game player meeting, Fyfe was back having photos with her and the family.

These little moments happen more than the public get to see and they are priceless for the people involved.

On Friday night, Brian Taylor walked up to Essendon captain Dyson Heppell for an interview. Heppell was deeply engaged with two children at the time – Harrison and his brother Miller.

While BT wanted to discuss footy, Heppell wanted the world to know that Harrison was fighting a serious health battle and Miller was providing the stem cells for his treatment.

Post-interview, Heppell took them around the rooms. This was a relationship built over time.

We’ve seen Melbourne give former captain Brad Green’s kids the opportunity to run around on the MCG just days after their mum’s funeral. Nathan Jones and Christian Petracca had a massive game to prepare for, but treated them like their own family.

That was the same day where the football world came together to help the fight for MND and Neale Daniher.

Just last month, Collingwood players chaired off six-year-old Kyron McGuire after involving him in the club throughout the week. McGuire is battling brain cancer.

For several years, the AFL umpires have been involving people with down syndrome in the Fiona McBurney Match Day Experience. They become part of the umpires’ day and meet the players before the match.

The players, coaches and umpires are phenomenal with how they make them feel important and happily pose for photos both in the rooms and out on the ground.

It happens in other sports too and it happens constantly in hospitals when cameras aren’t around.

Players get countless requests for selfies and autographs. If you’ve ever had the opportunity to meet your hero, you’ll remember what an incredible experience it was. If your hero – having no idea how much you idolise them – treated you like you were really special, you’ll never forget it.

Now imagine how you would have felt if your health was at its lowest ebb.

We all got a far greater insight into the joy sport can bring to the face of someone who is battling yesterday. Anyone who saw it, will struggle to forget those moments.