AFL Toyota Premiership 2011

Indigenous leadership programs

Nathan Lovett-Murray – Indigenous Leadership Program

During July a group of indigenous young people from the Heywood district in Victoria came to Melbourne as guests of the Foundation. This visit was initiated by Essendon player Nathan Lovett-Murray, who himself hails from Heywood, and provided opportunities for these young people to broaden their horizons and catch a glimpse of exciting new possibilities for their futures.

While in Melbourne they were given a unique view into the behind scenes activity of AFL and football generally, and attended a range of events at which they heard leaders such as Kevin Sheedy and Anthony Mundine who spoke about the importance of leadership n the community. The group also participated in the presentation of a cultural awareness program at Essendon Grammar School.

Following this trip Nathan Lovett-Murray paid a return visit to these young people back in Heywood, where a dinner was held and the participants had the opportunity to speak about their experiences. The participants are now working on community projects that will help the Heywood community.

It is anticipated that this will be the first of many opportunities for indigenous young people to be involved in leadership programs with the AFL. The Foundation has also built a relationship with the Unity Foundation (an indigenous players’ foundation) to further develop the outcomes of this program.

Kris Massie’s “Eat & Leap into Life” Program

Following consultation, Adelaide Crows player Kris Massie initiated a program he named ‘Eat and Leap into Life’ aimed at providing mentoring and life skill opportunities for indigenous young people who are socially disadvantaged in Adelaide. The program revolved around breakfast each Thursday morning for six weeks during which nutrition and healthy life-style choices were discussed. This was followed by a range of creative activities designed to build trust and rapport with those in attendance. The young people were encouraged to identify their life goals and aspirations, and then assisted in identifying steps they can take towards achieving their goals. Other Crows players, including Andrew McLeod, were involved in this breakfast program, and have also participated in regular monthly follow-up meetings with the young people who attended.