MEDIA RELEASE FROM THE AUSTRALIAN FOOTBALL LEAGUE
Bachar Houli Program to expand in 2015
The AFL is pleased to announce the Bachar Houli Program will expand in 2015 as a result of a new funding agreement announced today by the Federal Government.
Richmond defender and Australia Post AFL Multicultural ambassador Bachar Houli joined Federal Attorney General, Senator The Hon. George Brandis QC for the announcement of the funding which took place at the Islamic Museum of Australia in Melbourne on Monday, December 8.
In addition to the Bachar Houli Schools Program and Cup, the Australian Government grant of $200, 000 will see the program grow in Western Sydney with the establishment of the Western Sydney Bachar Houli Leadership Academy and the National Bachar Houli Leadership Academy will increase from 25 participants to 35 participants.
Bachar Houli thanked the Australian Government for its ongoing support of the program.
“I would like to acknowledge the Australian Government for its tremendous support which enables the AFL to provide an opportunity for students from Islamic schools to play AFL.
“Not only does the program provide talent pathways for its participants, it also plays an integral role in fostering greater cultural understanding and promoting social inclusion through sport.
“In 2014 the program engaged more than 5000 participants annually from Islamic schools across the country and I am proud to see it expand in 2015 so that more young Muslim students have the opportunity to play our great game and be part of our leadership program.”
Dorothy Hisgrove, AFL General Manager, People Customer and Community said the Bachar Houli Program forms an important part of the AFL’s commitment to increasing diversity in the game.
“Fundamental to the AFL’s diversity strategy, the Bachar Houli Program aims to strengthen leadership, promote values and provide unique football development opportunities for young Muslim men aspiring to play AFL football.
“The program uses sport as a vehicle for social cohesion and we are excited to see it grow in 2015, particularly in Western Sydney, the multicultural hub of Australia, a key region to the AFL’s multicultural program.”
2015 Bachar Houli Program will include:
- Bachar Houli to visit Islamic Schools across Australia
- Bachar Houli Cup in Victoria, Western Sydney, Queensland and Western Australia
- National Bachar Houli Leadership Program to include 35 participants
- Establishment of the Western Sydney Bachar Houli Leadership Academy
- AFL Ramadan Dinner to be held in Victoria and Western Sydney
For further information, please contact Amy Hattam, 0423 505 083 or amy.hattam@afl.com.au
Last Modified on 12/02/2015 16:43