Now in its sixth year, the Laguntas program continues to provide a platform for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders with an alternate AFL talent pathway.
The Laguntas hosted the Jim Stynes Academy at the Swinburne Centre on Sunday, August 12 and secured a strong 40-point victory.
The Laguntas program, delivered in partnership with the Korin Gamadji Institute (KGI) and AFL Victoria, provides young Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander men the opportunity to play in invitational football games and receive support in areas such as cultural strengthening, leadership, health, education, and training and employment pathways.
Will Dwyer, who is engaged in Richmond’s Next Generation Academy program, was a standout for the winning side.
The Shepparton product received the best on ground award for his efforts through the midfield and forward line.
Coached by retired Essendon player Nathan Lovett-Murray, the Laguntas led the scoreboard all day and went on to win the clash 10.12-72 to 4.8-32.
The Laguntas side also featured Maurice Rioli, a relative of Richmond forward Daniel Rioli, and the son of Tiger great Maurice Rioli.
The Boorimul program, which draws on similarities from the Laguntas program, was created to identify and nurture talented Indigenous female players aged 16 to 20 years old into the elite AFL pathway.
Best players
Laguntas: Will Dwyer, Maurice Rioli, Marlon Johnstone, Jamarra Ugle-Hagan, Josiah K, Matthew Ravenarki, Kayne Councillor.
Jim Stynes: Mel Maguang, Mo Yassine, Saad Elhawli, Tyrell Lafituanai, Youseph Did, Joseph Halliwell
Photos: Cam Grimes
