Meet Luke Sansbury.

He’s a member of the 2016 Aboriginal AFL Academy and, importantly, a milestone man.

The Immanuel College student comes from Port Augusta, and his cultural groupings include the Adnyamathanha, Narrunga and Kokatha mobs.

He missed out on the Academy intake for 2015 but persevered and was brought into the squad this year.

Luke’s story is one of significant achievement, brought about through his own hard work in school.

His humility is also something that is also to his credit - only now, at the end of the Academy season, have his teammates and coaches learned Luke was elected captain of the Immanuel College boarding house.

This is a significant achievement; in doing so Luke becomes the first Aboriginal person to be elected to the position.

Ultimately, it came as no surprise to leaders in the Aboriginal AFL Academy though, with his growth and leadership on show throughout the year.

“We all know Luke loves ‘chilling’ and fishing and camping, but it’s the way he uses his leadership skills and voice this year that has been really beneficial to himself and his teammates,” says Academy mentor Steve Allen.

“He has ambitions to keep playing footy, but in terms of his career he’s seeking an apprenticeship or to go and work in the mines – I think wherever he ends up will love his positive attitude and leadership.”

Luke participates in a 9RAR base visit earlier in the year

Luke’s work as boarding house captain earned the praise from Immanuel’s director of boarding, Bernie Dean.

He says Luke’s integrity in the role is his biggest asset, as he seeks to support both student and staff member alike.

“Luke represents the views of the boarders without any concern and in turn, lets the boarding community know how the staff are working in the boarding house and how and why matters are dealt with in the way that they are,” Mr Dean says.

“Luke is absolutely brilliant in this role and his help has been absolutely invaluable. He is honest, credible and totally reliable.”