Al Noori Muslim School has been named Champions of the 2017 Bachar Houli Cup after winning their Grand Final game against Granville Boys High School. 
 
The GIANTS along with AFL NSW/ACT hosted the annual Bachar Houli Cup which saw over 150 students from eight schools come together at Progress Park in Auburn.
 
Named after Richmond player and Australia Post AFL Multicultural Ambassador Bachar Houli, the program encourages Year 9 and 10 students of Muslim backgrounds to participate in an AFL 9’s competition.
 
Whilst some of the boys have been playing AFL for years, for others, it was the first time they had picked up a football.
 
The Bachar Houli Cup is about more than just playing football – it is about connecting with other people from different cultural backgrounds from across Western Sydney to establish a sense of unity within the community. 
 
GIANTS Community Engagement Coordinator Emad Elkheir said that events like this are important in promoting diversity and enhancing social cohesion.
 
“This is a great opportunity for young Muslim boys to positively express themselves through sport and engage in a safe and friendly environment” Elkheir said. 
 
Al Noori student Ibrahim Zaha was also humbled to be announced as the ‘Best and Fairest’ player. 
 
“This trophy is not just for me, but for all of the other boys,” Zaha said.
 
“I’m just glad I enjoyed myself and had a fun day.”
 
Some of the best players from the tournament will be given the opportunity to be part of the Bachar Houli Academy – a week long football talent program for aspiring Muslim AFL players to be held in September.