Students kick major goals

Four students from Como Secondary College have been selected for the prestigious AFL Next Generation Academy – a major milestone that celebrates multiculturalism, strengthens student engagement and reflects the power of sport in shaping futures.

The students — Zeni Reynolds (Year 10), Te’Shariahna Abbott (Year 8), Athieng Jok (Year 8) and Tane Taua-Gillespie (Year 9) — are all part of  the school’s Follow the Dream program, which, in partnership with the Polly Farmer Foundation, supports Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students to in pursuing their education and planning meaningful pathways.

The opportunity began when one student shared his dream of becoming an AFL player. While visual arts teacher, Monique Laves, doesn’t usually work in the sporting arena, she recognised a unique chance to support students aspirations beyond the classroom. 

“We started having more conversations around goals and pathways,” Ms Laves said.  

“One student told me about his dream to play footy professionally, and we just took it from there.” 

From that one conversation, three more students – all from diverse Aboriginal, Torres Strait Islander and multicultural backgrounds - were also encouraged to apply, inspired by one peer who had already joined the Academy. 

The AFL Club Next Generation Academies are a joint initiative between the AFL and AFL clubs, aimed at providing more opportunities for Indigenous and multicultural youth to participate in elite football pathways. Students receive specialised training, leadership development and a strong connection back to their education. 

Each student brings their own unique story: 

• Zeni Reynolds, who lives with his grandmother in Manning but is originally from Broome, plays for South Perth Football Club and now trains with the Fremantle Dockers NGA. 
• Te’Shariahna Abbott, a Noongar student with strong football roots — her uncles are AFL stars Michael Walters and Marlion Pickett — plays for the Manning Rippers and is currently in the Eagles’ catchment zone. 
• Athieng Jok, who is Yamaji and South Sudanese, is also a Manning Rippers player and loves training alongside her friend Te’Shariahna. 
• Tane Taua-Gillespie, of Māori background, has already made his mark in the Eagles NGA and thrives on the chance to play in derby games. 

“We’re so proud of what they’ve achieved,” Ms Laves said.  

“They already had the footy skills from playing in their local communities - this is a great next step.” 

“We love to cultivate community relationships to help our students grow. 

“This opportunity has helped our students feel proud of who they are and excited for what’s possible.”