Several StreetSmarts SUNS Academy talents have been named to feature in the inaugural AFL Indigenous and Multicultural Futures programs this month.

Gold Coast SUNS Shayla McDonald and Ally McKenzie, alongside Torres Strait Islander SUN Mistee Lily Sagigi, will join the most promising emerging First Nations 16 and 17-year-old footballers to take on the Multicultural Futures squad this Sunday, at Waverley Park.

Designed as an addition to the AFL Diversity talent pathways, the Futures program will support player retention within state talent pathways programs, while continuing individual player development.

Many of the players named in the AFL Indigenous and Multicultural Futures squads will go on to take part in the 2027 AFL Indigenous and Multicultural Academy – a year-long program comprising in-person and online training and education for players in their Draft year or preparing to enter their Draft year.

Before featuring in the talent showcase match, the young athletes will meet in Melbourne to participate in a camp comprising football training sessions, as well as education sessions covering leadership and social, emotional and cultural wellbeing.

“We are thrilled to be introducing the AFL Indigenous and Multicultural Futures program to our AFL Diversity Talent Pathways offering,” AFL Diversity Talent Programs Manager Narelle Long said. 

“The Futures program will help us to continue engagement and better support talented young players and will further enhance their football and personal development.

“As players progress through the Academy program they will have access to a specialised development model focused on their individual needs to further assist them to reach their Draft potential, as week as tailored support to assist their growth on and off the field.”

MATCH DETAILS
Indigenous Futures Girls vs Multicultural Futures Girls 
Date: Sunday, September 13
Time: 12:30pm
Venue: Waverley Park
Stream: Watch a live stream on the AFLW website and AFLW app
Team lists: Click here to view the team lists for the match

INDIGENOUS FUTURES GIRLS SQUAD

Coaches: Tiah Toth, Bronwyn Gulden and Tyson Saunders