Footy cult hero Anthony McDonald-Tipungwuti finds a radically different new career after shocking the AFL by retiring twice in the space of a year
- Anthony McDonald-Tipungwuti has found a new career
- The AFL cult hero retired from the sport last year
- He will give back to his new community in Mildura
Footy icon Anthony McDonald-Tipungwuti has lifted the lid on his radical career change after retiring from the AFL last year.
McDonald-Tipungwuti, 30, made a surprise return to football in 2023 after retiring in 2022, but called it a day with a farewell appearance during the Bombers’ last-round win at the end of last season.
The popular star now lives in Mildura and will represent Imperials in the Sunraysia League in 2024, but has revealed what he will be doing off the pitch.
The free-scoring forward will work with the local hospital to visit schools, where he will oversee foot clinics to help children’s wellbeing.
“(I will) teach them about health and what it means to stay healthy, and inspire young children,” McDonald-Tipungwuti told 7NEWS.
Anthony McDonald-Tipungwuti has revealed his new career change
The AFL cult hero retired from the sport at the end of last season
‘It doesn’t matter if they are indigenous children, we have many nationalities here in Mildura. I can’t wait to get out there and share my story.
‘I’m looking forward to the new role. It’s very different to football, but I’m looking forward to challenging myself and seeing what I can do.”
The former Essendon star has plenty of experience in this area and has conducted similar clinics during his playing days.
McDonald-Tipungwuti moved to rural Victoria and admitted it took some time to get used to the transition.
‘I was used to that structure, going to training, doing all the football things. Now it’s just, yeah, being a normal person in a way,” he said.
‘In the beginning it is quite a challenge, but for me it is now more about learning and seeing what I can do with myself and grow personally.
“Hopefully we can build a really good support in the community, get more AFL clubs, netball, football and give something back to the community and kids.”
Reflecting on his upcoming footy challenge with the Imperials, he said: “They have been struggling for a few years.
“It’s probably good for me to challenge myself as a footballer and as someone who has experience of AFL football.
“I’m looking forward to challenging myself, especially encouraging the next generation as juniors to come and play football.”