Checkside Chats – Episode 7

By ZAC MILBANK

SANFL’s Amer El Hosni has a fascinating story to tell.

That’s why Episode 7 of Checkside Chats is a must listen as Amer details his football journey, growing up in South Australia’s emerging Muslim community whilst immersing himself in Australia’s game playing with his mates at school.

Now working in his dream job as a Game Development Trainee as part of the evolving Bachar Houli Foundation, Amer is currently in the midst of his busiest month as he plays a major role in organising the two-day Bachar Houli Cup carnival.

‘’The real focus (of the Bachar Houli Foundation) is connecting with the Islamic youth in South Australia through programs such as the Bachar Houli Cup,’’ Amer tells Checkside Chats.

‘’It’s more than just football, this event. It’s for kids who want to go out there have a touch of the football and most of all, have fun.

‘’From a life and relationships perspective, the Bachar Houli Cup is way bigger than playing football.

”We are encouraging the kids to go and shake the hands of kids from the other schools, have a chat and introduce yourself.

”The one thing that everyone has in common out there, regardless of school background, is that we are all Muslim. So it’s an amazing connection to have in the one place, the opportunity for them to connect is huge. It’s really exciting stuff.’’

Starting his career with Hope Valley FC before playing in Norwood’s under-age teams and now, for Rostrevor Old Collegians, Amer has his sights set on playing a role in South Australia having its first Muslim player selected by an AFL club.

In the meantime, he is determined to provide the State’s Islamic youth with the opportunities presented to him as a teenager.

‘’It’s all about making multicultural youth, and even the elders, realise that this game is for all,” Amer says.

”Bachar’s saying is that: ’This game is for everybody, everyone can play.’

‘’We understand soccer is a world sport but footy is just as accepting as any other sport.’’