Throughout my life, I was taught to never forget my roots and to be proud of where I came from. I wanted to instil these same lessons in the next generation and provide pathways for youth to grow. That’s the idea behind the Adam Saad Academy.

 

In the program, we run education sessions to teach kids life lessons and good values, as well as proper nutrition, mental fortitude, cultural awareness and leadership skills. And, of course, we occasionally kick the footy around!

Growing up, I always had a footy in my hands. I started playing at six years old, thanks to my dad and uncles, who all loved playing.

 

I had two main role models as a kid. The first was my father. I’ve always admired his work ethic and his resilience; he works hard in everything he does, and always gives 100 per cent.

 

The second role model was former Richmond footballer, Bachar Houli. Like me, Bachar is Muslim. And apart from being an amazing footy player, he’s able to balance religion and sport in his life in a way that I’ve always admired.

I’m a Lebanese Muslim, and religion is the most important thing in my life. Personally, I don’t find it difficult to balance religion and sport – in fact, I think of religion as my compass, showing me the path to take.

 

Islam is a way of life: it teaches us resilience and how to have good character. There’s a verse in the Qur’an – our religious text – that reads, “For indeed with hardship will be ease”. It always reminds me that there’s a light at the end of every tunnel.

 

Islam also teaches us to be kind and respectful, and to help people in need. But first and foremost, you must be sincere. Intent is massive in Islam; when you’re sincere and have the right intention, everything in your life seems to fall into place.

I’m very grateful to be able to practise my religion freely while living my dream, playing in the AFL. All the clubs I’ve played with have been incredibly welcoming and accepting.

 

When I started playing professionally, many players and staff didn’t know anything about Muslims – including our obligations and what we practise in our religion. The first thing I did was to try to open up those conversations with teammates and football staff. I told my story about being a Muslim and what I practised in my day-to-day life. I explained how Muslims around the world did the same.

 

The reception was awesome. Everyone was respectful and asked so many insightful questions, which I was more than happy to answer. I've now done this at each club I’ve played for: Gold Coast, Essendon and now Carlton. Australia needs to shine a spotlight on cultural education, so sharing my story with others is an important commitment for me.

Diversity in the media – whether it’s in the AFL, the newsroom or any other place – is crucial. It breaks down barriers between different cultures while showing we’re all human beings at the end of the day – no matter what race you are, what culture you’re part of, or what religion you follow. Australia has a huge, diverse population, and that should be celebrated by everyone.

 

That’s also why I choose to have these conversations, even though it may be difficult sometimes. It’s the best way to build relationships with other people from different backgrounds.

 

Celebrating diversity and being proud of your upbringing is also something I try to highlight in the Adam Saad Academy, which I started in 2018.

Community is a huge part of my life, and it’s always been a passion of mine to give back and make a difference. God’s given me this opportunity to do some good, and I try my best to give back whenever I can. Sometimes, I still pinch myself to make sure this isn’t all a dream.