Thursday Island’s AFL star is off to represent Queensland at the National Championships for school sport. Photo: Supplied.
Mistee Sagigi is a hot name in the youth AFL scene right now, with the Thursday Island talent recently selected to represent Queensland at the National School Sport Australia Championships this month.
Despite only starting her Australian rules journey last year with AFL Cape York, Sagigi’s passion and dedication, coupled with her natural abilities, have taken her futher than most.
Mum Tari Sagigi struggled to contain her excitement for her daughter, who had always been a gifted athlete, but did not have many opportunities to progress.
“Proud is an understatement that both Jack, Mistee’s dad, and myself are feeling,” she said.
“Mistee is a fast learner; I’ve found she’s coachable and learns quickly from her mistakes, [which] has allowed her to grow and develop with each game she plays.
“She has come in leaps and bounds in such a short time, and with no regular competitions on Thursday Island for her, it makes us even more proud of her.”
During games, Saigigi has quickly demonstrated she is a natural on-field leader with courage and a kind heart.
“Mistee has always led by example on and off the field,” Ms Sagigi said.
“She’s been the smallest on the field in every sport she’s played – touch, basketball and league – yet, she has the biggest heart.
“She’ll take on the biggest girl in rugby league and won’t back down or stop, no matter what is on the scoreboard.
“This all comes naturally to Mistee, which has been a blessing as she’s fallen in love with the sport.
AFL Cape York development co-ordinator Kieran Sciberras said it was no easy feat to get this far in the game, with the last state selection being an AFL Cape York player in 2023.
He explained that it began with in-school AFL sessions, where players got the opportunity to be selected for the AFL Cape York Crusaders representative program and beyond.
“Having Mistee reach such a high level of representative football is outstanding,” Mr Sciberras said.
“It shows that there is a genuine pathway for young people from remote FNQ to high-level AFL.”
Mistee Sagigi will face off against the best student players in the country alongside her Queensland team this month. Photo: Supplied.
