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Michael Long

Introduction

Michael Long is a legendary Australian rules footballer, best known for his AFL career with the Essendon Football Club (1989–2001) and his activism for Indigenous rights.

He was not only an electrifying player, famous for his speed, agility, and game-changing ability, but also a pioneer for racial equality in Australian sport. His courageous stand against racism in 1995 led to the AFL’s first racial vilification policy, and his activism inspired the creation of The Long Walk Foundation and Dreamtime at the ‘G.

Long’s impact on and off the field has made him one of the most respected figures in Australian sport and Indigenous advocacy. To this day, he remains deeply committed to helping Indigenous communities and ensuring that future generations have greater opportunities in education, leadership, and sport.

Early Life & Family History

Birth & Indigenous Heritage

  • Born: October 1, 1969
  • Hometown: Darwin
  • Indigenous Background: Long is of Tiwi and Anmatyerre descent, growing up in the Tiwi Islands, a region famous for producing elite footballers.

Footballing Family

Michael Long comes from a legendary Indigenous football family, deeply connected to the AFL:

    • Father: Jack Long – Anmatyerre Respected Tiwi elder.
    • Brother In-law: Maurice Rioli (Richmond) – Norm Smith Medalist, AFL Hall of Fame member.
    • Nephews:
      • Cyril Rioli (Hawthorn)– Four-time premiership player, 2015 Norm Smith Medalist.
      • Daniel Rioli (Richmond)– Three-time premiership player.
      • Willie Rioli (West Coast Eagles, Port Adelaide)– 2018 premiership player.
    • Son:Jake Long – Played for Essendon (2015–2019).Darwin

Long’s family legacy in football is one of the strongest in AFL history, spanning multiple generations of elite Indigenous athletes.

Football History

AFL Career (1989–2001)

  • Drafted by Essendon with pick 23 in the 1988 National Draft.

1993 Premiership & Famous Grand Final Goal

  • In 1993, Long was a key part of Essendon’s “Baby Bombers”team, which won the AFL Premiership.
  • In the Grand Final against Carlton, he produced one of the greatest goals in AFL history:
    • He took four bouncesfrom half-back, weaving through opponents before kicking a stunning goal at the MCG.
  • Many believe Long should have won the Norm Smith Medalfor best on ground, but it was controversially awarded to teammate Michael Symons.

1995: Confronting Racism & Changing the AFL

  • In Round 4, 1995, Long was racially abusedby Collingwood player Damian Monkhorst.
  • Instead of staying silent, he demanded action, leading to the creation of the AFL’s first racial vilification policy (Rule 35: Anti-Vilification Code).
  • His actions set a precedentfor tackling racism in Australian sport.

Impact of His Stand Against Racism

  • The AFL introduced education programs for players, coaches, and fans.
  • Racial abuse was officially banned under AFL rules, making the game safer for Indigenous players.
  • Long became a leading voice for Indigenous athletes, inspiring future generations to speak out.

Activism & The Long Walk

The Long Walk (2004)

  • In 2004, Long walked 650km from Melbourne to Canberrato highlight Indigenous issues.
  • His goal was to meet with Prime Minister John Howardand demand better treatment of Indigenous Australians.
  • This historic journey inspired the creation of The Long Walk Foundation, which continues to raise awareness and funds for Indigenous programs.

Dreamtime at the 'G (2005–Present)

  • Inspired by Long’s activism, the AFL launched “Dreamtime at the ‘G”in 2005.
  • The match, played between Essendon and Richmond, celebrates Indigenous contributions to football.
  • The pre-game ceremony, featuring The Long Walk, is now one of the most important events in the AFL calendar.

Post-Football Career & Ongoing Commitment to Indigenous Communities Michael Long Learning & Leadership Centre (MLLLC)

  • Opened in Darwin in 2015, this state-of-the-art facilityhelps Indigenous youth with education, leadership, and life skills.
  • Programs focus on mentoring, sports development, and cultural awareness.

Other Achievements & Awards

  • AFL Hall of Fame (2007)– Recognized as one of the game’s all-time greats.
  • Essendon Hall of Fame Legend– One of the club’s greatest players.

Ongoing Work & Future Goals

Michael Long remains committed to helping Indigenous communities into the future. His Long Walk Foundation and Learning Centre continue to:

  • Support Indigenous youth through education, leadership, and sports programs.
  • Long has said that his mission is far from over. He wants to continue working with Indigenous communities, using sport as a way to create change, inspire young leaders, and build a brighter future for the next generation.
  • Raise awareness of racism and social inequality in Australia.
  • Advocate for Indigenous rights and reconciliation at the national level.

Legacy & Lasting Impact

Michael Long’s impact on Australia extends far beyond football:

  1. Trailblazer for Indigenous Players– Helped create a more inclusive AFL for Indigenous athletes.
  2. Champion for Anti-Racism– His 1995 stand forced the AFL to take action against racism.
  3. Community Leader & Mentor– Through The Long Walk, the Learning Centre, and AFL programs, he continues to fight for Indigenous rights and opportunities.

His legacy is celebrated every year through Dreamtime at the ‘G, and his influence remains strong in the AFL today.