Watch the Shaheens train just once and I’m certain you’ll walk away with a new appreciation for Australian football.
A team comprised solely of players from Melbourne’s Pakistani community, the majority who until four months ago knew almost nothing of our native game, might sound a little strange to some.
But standing watching the 30-odd players train on Monday night, ahead of their final AFL 9s hit out of the summer season, it’s impossible not to smile.
Men and boys of all different shapes and sizes, with varying degrees of skill level – some still very raw, charge around Princess Park with unbridled energy and enthusiasm.