Veteran’s Unexpected Comeback: Returning to the Indigenous All Stars Line-up After 12 Years

A total of 31 players have been selected to represent the AFL’s Indigenous All Stars in their upcoming clash against Fremantle scheduled for Saturday week.

On Monday, head coach Xavier Clarke revealed the complete roster of players chosen for the pre-season match set for February 15.

This year’s squad boasts seven All-Australians, ten premiership champions, and seven top-20 draft selections.

Experienced players Steven May and Liam Jones have made the cut, marking 12 years since they last played for the All Stars in the 2013 event.

“Growing up in Darwin, becoming part of this was always a dream for me,” said Demons veteran May after his selection in the squad on Monday.

“I had the privilege of playing back in 2013, and it feels surreal to have this opportunity again.

“Representing our culture on such a significant platform is truly an honour.

“It’s also a wonderful opportunity for us to unite, coming together from various cultures and backgrounds, to showcase the game we all cherish.”

“I hope we can deliver a fantastic performance.”

Port Adelaide contributes four players to the All Stars squad: Jason Horne-Francis, Jase Burgoyne, and Jeremy Finlayson.

Clarke stated he felt privileged with such a depth of talent available for selection.

“It was incredible to see so many talented players available for the match,” the coach remarked.

“This squad is truly exciting, and I’m eager to coach such a remarkable group against Fremantle.

“I feel fortunate to have the opportunity to work with so much skill, and I can’t wait to watch the lads put on a great display.”

Indigenous All Stars Squad

Callum Ah Chee (Noongar, Palyku and Nyikina, Yawuru), Karl Amon (Noonuccal), Shai Bolton (Minang and Wilman), Jase Burgoyne (Kokatha, Larrakia, Warai), Charlie Cameron (Waanyi and Lardil), Jeremy Finlayson (Yorta Yorta), Jade Gresham (Yorta Yorta), Bobby Hill (Whadjuk, Ballardong, Noongar), Brad Hill (Wilmen, Noongar), Jason Horne-Francis (Wardaman), Lawson Humphries (Nyul Nyul, Oomiday, Worrora), Jarman Impey (Yorta Yorta), Joel Jeffrey (Kukatj, Wulwulam), Ash Johnson (Jaru, Kija), Liam Jones (Kija), Tim Kelly (Noongar, Wongi, Yamatji), Coen Livingstone (Balardong, Noongar), Ben Long (Anmatjerre), Steven May (Larrakia), Jesse Motlop (Larrakia), Alex Pearce (Palawa), Kysaiah Pickett (Yamatji, Noongar), Izak Rankine (Kokatha and Ngarrindjeri), Maurice Rioli (Tiwi), Willie Rioli (Tiwi), Liam Ryan (Yamatji), Jy Simpkin (Yorta Yorta), Tyson Stengle (Wirangu), Michael Walters (Whadjuk, Wilmen and Ngarrindjeri), Nasiah Wanganeen-Milera (Kokatha, Narangga), Zac Williams (Wiradjuri).