Indigenous Rugby

After watching the indigenous rugby teams, Moore Park and Redfern, play last Sunday I was inspired to learn more about the history of the sport from an aboriginal perspective. I know from going to Rugby League and Union games that indigenous players are an integral source of talent for the sport.

The first aboriginal player to play Rugby League for Australia was Lloyd McDermott in 1962. During this time, racial discrimination was still prevalent and McDermott would be the only black player to play professional rugby for some time. Before McDermott, it was difficult to stir up interest for the game in indigenous communities because there were no youth programs that introduced the sport to these children.

The Lloyd McDermott Aboriginal Foundation has come a long way in terms of bringing rugby to indigenous youth. They have formed a development team that exposes kids to the game and have even formed competitive teams and leagues that travel around the world to compete.

The AFL and Rugby League have also come to realize the potential that many aboriginal players have, and have invested millions into these communities to try and develop future talent. From what I have read thus far, Australia has come a long way in terms of embracing aboriginal rugby players. Interest in rugby seems to be continuing to grow in indigenous communities, which undoubtedly makes for a more vibrant and prosperous sport in Australia. I can only hope that many of the programs established to further the sport in aboriginal circles continue to expand in size and scope, and that any child who wants to play the sport is afforded the opportunity.

Sources: http://www.theaustralian.com.au/news/sport/rugby-failing-indigenous-players/story-e6frg7mf-1225881561235

http://www.rugby.com.au/lloyd_mcdermott/lloyd_mcdermott_home,122152.html