The Bachar Houli Foundation’s (BHF) Elite Performance Academy embarked on its annual international camp in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) in December.

The BHF’s Elite Performance Academy is an intensive 12-month program delivered to the most talented male Islamic footballers across Australia.

Now in its seventh year, the BHF recently delivered another successful international camp in the UAE with the support of Plenary Group and Everwell.

A total of 13 players were selected for the camp, after demonstrating strong footballing and athletic ability at the Foundation’s National Senior Boys Academy earlier this year.

The eight-day camp is designed to accelerate elite football development while providing emerging Islamic footballers with a pathway into AFL talent programs.

Hosted at elite training facilities across Abu Dhabi and Dubai, the program also placed a strong emphasis on leadership development alongside cultural enrichment.

Spearheaded by three-time premiership Tiger and BHF founder, Bachar Houli OAM, alongside Head of BHF Programs & High-Performance, Ahmed Saad, the program has become a trusted pathway for emerging Islamic talent to develop their skills and discover their potential, both on and off the field.

Across the next 12 months, participants will receive regular check-ins from mentors including BHF coaches, mentors and staff, while progressing through a personalised development plan tailored to foster both physical and personal growth.

Highlights of the camp included a visit to Sheikh Zayed Mosque, an Abu Dhabi desert safari.

The BHF’s Elite Performance Academy also engaged with the local AFL community in Dubai through an Auskick clinic before its annual exhibition match against AFL Middle East at the Sevens Stadium.