Our champions

Sport

From grassroots to elite pathways, celebrating participants taking the next step in their sporting journey.

Saad El-Hawli

Drafted to Essendon Football Club

A BHF academy participant since the age of 14, Saad El-Hawli made history as the Foundation’s first AFL draftee when Essendon selected him with pick No. 13 in the 2024 Mid-Season Rookie Draft. From the BHF academies and Elite Performance Academy to the AFL, Saad’s journey reflects his hard work, resilience and commitment to his faith and community.

Adam Sweid

Drafted to Fremantle Football Club

A BHF academy participant since the age of 12, Adam Sweid became the Foundation’s second AFL draftee when Fremantle selected him with pick No. 25. An All-Australian and Coates Talent League Team of the Year member, Adam’s journey from the BHF academies and Islamic College of Sport to the AFL reflects his resilience, faith and commitment to his family and community.

Hussien El Achkar

Drafted to Essendon Football Club

A BHF academy participant since the age of 12, Hussien El Achkar became the Foundation’s third AFL draftee when Essendon selected him with pick No. 53. A dynamic midfielder-forward and Vic Metro representative, Hussien’s journey from the BHF academies to the AFL reflects his resilience, professionalism and commitment to his development.

Education

Celebrating young people pursuing their ambitions and creating new opportunities through education. 

Amani Zubair

From ICS to University

A BHF participant and Islamic College of Sport student, Amani Zubair represents the impact of education and opportunity beyond the sporting field. After graduating from ICS, Amani continued her education at university, marking an important next step in her journey and a proud success story for the BHF community.

Employment

From grassroots to elite pathways, celebrating participants taking the next step in their sporting journey.

Marwan El-Houli

From participant to executive

From BHF participant to executive, Marwan El-Houli’s journey reflects the long-term impact of the Foundation’s programs. After progressing through BHF’s Elite Performance Academy, Marwan returned to the Foundation and has since developed into a key member of its executive team, helping shape opportunities for the next generation of young people.