Teen refugees take to AFL
By Simon Brunsdon
James Demby and Blaise Singizwa, both 15, are currently in Coffs Harbour playing for AFL NSW/ACT at the junior All Nations Championships.
Their selection in the state team has been four years in the making.
After relocating to Australia as refugees from Africa, James and Blaise were two of the first players to enrol the in the AFL’s multicultural program in Wagga.
Four years down the track and the pair have flourished with their respective Riverina clubs – Collingullie and Eastlakes-Mangoplah- Cookardinia United.
“Personally, it’s very rewarding to see these boys not only making representative sides but also being strong contributors to local Wagga clubs,” Southern NSW participation manager Marc Geppert said.
“When these boys arrived in Australia they had no idea what AFL was, so to see these boys excelling is fantastic.
The program was established to ensure AFL is a vehicle that encourages community strengthening and inclusion amongst the greater community.”
Not only are they talented at Australian football, but the boys have grown a love for the sport.
“I really enjoy playing AFL,” James said.
“The AFL is a fantastic way to meet new friends, especially when you are not only new to a town but also to a new country.”
Blaise hopes they can both contribute to NSW-ACT’s campaign at the All Nations.
The championships kicked off on Thursday and will run through to Wednesday in Coffs Harbour.
