It was an important lesson for the 14-year-old, who has battled a brain tumor for more than seven years, and it has delivered by the Hawthorn Football Club.

The aspiring footballer travelled to Melbourne this month to spend three days with the Hawthorn Football Club in Melbourne through the HighMarks program.

It was there he got the good news that his condition had stabilised after numerous operations - but also that he could still achieve his dreams.

"Something they said to us was that there is no such thing as pure talent, being talented is one thing but people who work hard are the ones who do really well," he said.

"I would like to play for the state league so it made me feel a lot better to know I can still do that."

It was an important message for West, whose coordination, growth and eyesight have all been affected by the brain stem tumor he has had since he was seven.

The HighMarks program offers young footballers who have overcome major life obstacles a chance to meet and learn from their idols, and it was a dream come true for the St Patricks College student.

Throughout operations and radiation treatment, West has continued to play for his local team - the Prospect Sharks - often flying back from hospital in Melbourne to catch games.

The HighMarks program gave him the opportunity to spend three days being mentored by Hawthorn's senior players, learn about healthy lifestyle choices, and go behind the scenes at an AFL game.

He was one of two Launceston players selected for the program and was recognised for displaying his leadership qualities when he provided instructions on kicking and handballing to children who were participating at half time event during a Hawthorn game at Aurora Stadium.

Alex's mother Linda said it was a "powerful thing" to see her son regain some confidence on the football field.

"Those comments really made a difference to him," she said.

Alex has also committed to the fight against cancer by participating in Call to Arms and Relay for Life, two charity events designed to raise money for cancer research and support.