Whether its watching matches, playing on the field or supporting their favourite players, many migrants in Australia are embracing AFL. Reflecting our evolving population, AFL has become more multicultural with many new migrants taking up footy for a sense of belonging. These athletes often act as an inspiration and role model for their communities.
1 Aliir Aliir
Aliir spent six years in a refugee camp in Kenya before migrating to Australia. He was introduced to AFL at age 14 and was drafted to the Sydney Swans in 2013.
2 Bachar Houli
Bachar was born in Australia to Lebanese parents. He was 14 when he decided that he wanted to be a professional footballer. He plays for Richmond.
3 Lin Jong
Western Bulldogs player Lin was born in Australia while his mother came from Taiwan and father from East Timor. He only started playing football at 15.
4 Stephen Coniglio
The GWS Giants player of Italian heritage is also a talent mentor to multicultural participants in the talent pathway. In 2012 he was nominated for the AFL Rising Star award.
5 Jimmy Toumpas
Although his first name is Dimitri, most people call him Jimmy. He captained the South Australian State team at the 2012 AFL National U 18 Championships, where he was named in the all-Australian team. He plays for Port Adelaide.
Discover more about the AFL Multicultural Program and read about its players ambassadors.
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