Richmond’s Bachar Houli
By Michael Esposito
“WHAT country are you from?” a young fan asked Richmond’s Bachar Houli during a school holiday footy forum at Queen Victoria Market last week.
“I’m Australian, I lived in Australia all my life but my parents were born in Lebanon,” Houli responded, to which the fan, of Lebanese background himself, beamed proudly.
Houli, a devout Muslim, has been a role-model for people who share his faith and culture since he entered the AFL system in 2007, particularly since moving to Richmond from Essendon where he has gone from being a fringe player to a permanent and vital member of the senior side.
The Tarneit resident said he has embraced the opportunity to set an example for young people and to promote the inclusive philosophy of Aussie Rules.
“I try to be the correct role-model from all kids out there. Accepting people from all backgrounds, that’s where we’re heading and it’s a great opportunity to stand up and be proud of who I am and definitely send a message to all kids out there, regardless of which background you’re from, that AFL is a game for everyone,” the 23-year-old said.
Houli, who idolised Anthony Koutoufides as a child, is a product of TAC Cup side Western Jets, and was fortunate enough to play under Mark Neeld and Leigh Tudor, who have gone on to assume coaching roles at Collingwood and Sydney respectively.
Despite struggling to get game-time at Essendon, Houli has been ultra-impressive for the youthful Tigers this season, averaging 22 disposals and becoming a dangerous rebounding defender with his speed and deadly left foot.
“It’s always tough trying to move across from one team to another but the club’s accepted me and my culture so it’s a positive,” Houli said.
“The good thing is I’m playing games, and so far I’ve played every game which is pretty positive.
“That’s the biggest challenge, trying to keep improving.The biggest thing for me was to become a better player defensively, and certainly the role down back is giving me that edge and I’m really enjoying that role.”
