Footy star shines spotlight on Indigenous struggles

ONE of the AFL’s best and most exciting talents has backed the tireless work of AFL Cape York in a visit to the Far North to be part of the organisation’s charity golf day.

Western Bulldogs star Jamarra Ugle-Hagan traded his guernsey for a set of clubs on Friday when he teed off with local business representatives for the annual charity event.

AFL Cape York House Foundation’s annual charity golf day raises awareness and funds to help children from remote Far North Indigenous communities complete their education.

Ugle-Hagan, who has been labelled as the next Buddy Franklin and was taken as the No. 1 pick in the 2020 AFL Draft, credits his education as the reason for his success.

He drew parallels between his experience and the work AFL Cape York House does supporting Indigenous young people to complete their education in a safe and culturally appropriate environment.

“If I didn’t put in the hard yards for my education, I probably wouldn’t be where I am today,” Ugle-Hagan said.

About 90 per cent of Indigenous children must leave their communities to complete their education.

But, due to homesickness and a lack of cultural and learning support, they often struggle to complete their education.

“The most challenging thing was probably living away from home,” he said.

“You’re at school then you’re living at school and you can’t get away from it.

“It was a struggle; I didn’t think I was going to fit in but at the end of the day they all just want what’s best for you.”

Ugle-Hagan said the work of AFL Cape York House Foundation played a critical role in giving young Indigenous children the chance to succeed in life.

“AFL Cape York House Foundation creates opportunity,” he said.

“They open up doors for people from communities, particularly remote communities to give them the experience and the opportunity to succeed in life.”