World Team Player Profile: Connor Hungerford
This week, in celebration of Toyota AFL Multicultural Round, we will be profiling the AFL NSW/ACT players selected in the World Team to play at the recent National Championships on the Gold Coast.
So far we have spoken to James Rene, Jamie Murphy, and Tim Organ, and finally, we’re chatting to Connor Hungerford.
Connor Hungerford
How old are you?
16
Which high school do you attend?
Marist College North Shore – Year 11
Which AFL Club do you play for?
I play for the Willoughby Juniors, playing for a joint venture side – Willoughby Mosman Swans
What position do you play?
I play in the midfield. Being in the midfield is the most fun you can have on a footy field. I really enjoy competing for the ball, especially on the ground when you get to smash-in then look for a clean hands exit. When I’m not in the midfield, I usually rotate up in the half-forward line.
What is your family cultural background?
Filipino and Australian.
Did your family migrate to Australia?
My mum migrated from the Philippines when she was a child. Her parents came as skilled migrants to provide their kids with a better education and opportunities. It was a 50/50 decision whether they came to Australia or Canada and luckily, they came here as the beaches are better and warmer! My dad’s family has been in Australia since the 1800s and I consider myself part of the changing face of Australia.
Did you grow up with AFL as a big part of your life?
I played Rugby Union up to the Under 9s and Rugby League till the Under 15s. I first played AFL in the Under 10s at the Willoughby Wildcats and I have been playing it ever since.
Our family was lucky enough to get a chance to train with the Sydney Swans when I was in primary school. That one training session was enough to get me to sign-up for the Wildcats. I love the game and gave away all rugby at age 15.
Which AFL team do you support?
Sydney Swans
Who is your favourite AFL player?
Josh Kennedy (the Swans one!)
Do you have any pre-game superstitions?
Left boot on first and laces tied, then the right boot. I have always done it this way.
What are your goals in your AFL career?
Week-in, week-out I want to win the next game and make the best contribution I can to the team. Career wise, I have my sights set on playing at the highest possible level. There is nothing better than testing your skills at the elite level and being a part of an elite playing group.
What’s something fun about yourself outside of football?
I’m pretty relaxed in nature. I enjoy going to the beach, listening to RnB, playing basketball, and of course having a laugh with mates.
What is your favourite subject at school?
Modern History. It’s fun learning about the past and how it shaped the world we live in today. It is also interesting that there are usually at least three views on the truth.
Where is the most interesting place you have ever been?
The Philippines where my mum, Belen was born. It is such a beautiful country, but it is a shock to see the contrast between the poverty and the areas of extreme wealth. No matter what they have though, the people are friendly, welcoming and generous.
What are you most likely to become famous for?
Footy hopefully!
What is the most impressive thing you know how to do?
I can play ‘Chopsticks’ on the piano.
What was the last adventure you went on?
The Gold Coast trip with the World Team. Being in an elite environment with the boys is always a fun experience. You learn about people and their background, and you also develop your footy and leadership skills while making new friends from across the country.
If your life was a book, what would the title be?
Just Getting Started.
What is your favourite childhood memory?
Easter egg hunts with all of the family.
What are you most terrified of?
Cockroaches.
Who is your ultimate role model and why?
It would have to be Michael O’Loughlin. He has taught me that it doesn’t matter what background you come from, or how much talent you have, life comes down to hard work. Those who put in the hard work will be the best.
