Reuben Willliam’s smile told the story of today. The 18-year-old, born in South Sudan, has had an unbelievable journey to be selected by the Lions in this morning’s Rookie Draft.
An attacking half-back, William is a product of the Club’s successful Hyundai Help for Kids Lions Academy.
“I already felt a part of the club even before I came here. It’s true what they say, it’s a family Club - they really do make you feel welcome,” Reuben told LionsTV this morning.
“It’s a childhood dream come true. I’ve supported this Club for as long as I can remember and to come here with good mates from the Academy (Lions Academy) is even better.
“I’m glad I got to stay home and stay around my family.”
When William was an infant, his father Deng was among two million people to die during Sudan's civil war, which ravaged their homeland from 1983-2005.
The family migrated to Australia in 2002, settling in Brisbane.
William is the fourth Sudanese player in the AFL system currently and is confident that the representation of Sudanese people in the game will only continue to grow.
“It’s a growing base. With us we bring more support. Our families, extended families and the Sudanese community. They see someone they know playing and they start following the sport.
‘It’s good to build the base of support and the Lions here too.”
Reuben singled out midfielder Pearce Hanley as a Lion he was keen to learn off.
“I know with hard work I can slip into the defence. We’ve got great talls there.
“I’ll be looking to be that small defender rebounding. I’ll look to pick everyone’s brains and try to get the best out of myself.
“Pearce Hanley used to play there so I might have a chat to him and get a few secrets on how to break the lines like he does.”
