Playing for keeps: How Faz Rana balances faith, leadership and competitive sport

Photo: Faz Rana flanked by his role models The Sunnah Guy and Sonny Bill Williams

Well known community figure Faz Rana is counting down the days as he prepares to represent Lebanon at the International Tag Federation tournament in Coffs Harbour from August 8-10.

Mr Rana’s life journey has taken him from a student at one of Sydney’s toughest schools to a much-admired leader in education and community service, balancing a career in wellbeing and youth development with a passion for sport.

Growing up, Faz found sport to be a positive outlet that kept him focused and out of trouble.

“Back then, sport was a way to stay engaged and build discipline,” he told AMUST.

“It gave me purpose and direction, which I’ve carried into everything I do as an adult.”

Right now, the International Tag event in Coffs Harbour (a picturesque tourist haven on the mid-north coast of NSW) is Faz’s major focus, as a member of Lebanon’s over 35s squad.

Sydney born but of Pakistani descent, the 37 year old is one of just two non-Lebanese players in the squad, a reflection of his strong ties to his wife Jahida’s Lebanese heritage.

“For me, representing Lebanon is a great privilege,” he says.

Faz’ sporting journey is complemented by a long-standing commitment to supporting young people through education.

He attended Birrong Boys High School back in the days when it had a notorious reputation.

“I saw stabbings, brawls, gang violence and even teachers getting attacked,” he recalled sadly.

“But I had a lot of admiration for my teachers and some of them became my role models.”

Faz was particularly inspired by one dedicated lady teacher – a Miss MacGregor – who stayed back after school in her own time to teach students who truly wanted to learn but had difficulty doing so during formal classes owing to ….let’s just say “other disruptions”.

“She made a real difference in my life,” Faz says.

“Watching how she cared and committed herself showed me how one person’s effort can change lives and that’s what first motivated me to ‘give back’, myself.”

Faz completed his degree at the Australian College of Physical Education, where he was one of only two Muslim athletes in his cohort.

He performed Hajj in 2011 at the tender age of 22, while his professional path eventually led him to Unity Grammar College at Austral in southwest Sydney, where he has now worked for more than 14 years.

Starting his career at Unity as a primary school educator, Faz quickly advanced into leadership positions.

He’s now the Head of Wellbeing at the prominent Muslim school and cherishes the role, which involves supporting students’ emotional, mental and social health.

“Helping young Muslim men navigate their lives today isn’t just about academics,” he says.

“Many students need guidance in understanding their worth and managing their feelings..and including their parents in the process is just as important.”

Faz collaborates with a team of counsellors, teachers and members of the religious department, working together to create a safe environment where students can develop confidence and resilience.

“We run workshops, provide counselling and work closely with families to ensure every student has the support they need,” he explains.

Faz’ leadership has been recognised with a number of honours, including the 2023 Crescent Wealth Leadership Award.

His own role models in terms of public figures include Sonny Bill Williams and of course, the late, great Muhammad Ali.

“I remember back in the day praying for Sonny Bill to become a Muslim and was delighted when he took the Shahada.”

“(Legendary footballer) Ronaldo is another of my role models and sporting heroes – he lives a very pure life – inshallah, he becomes a Muslim one day, too.”

Faz has formed a great bond with (international Muslim speaker and youth advocate) The Sunnah Guy, whose words inspire him daily.

During Covid, Faz and his wife founded Metamorphosis Coaching, offering programs for young people aged 8 to 16.

These initiatives focus on issues like bullying, self-esteem and understanding Islamic values.

“We want young people to feel valued and connected,” he says.

“Sport and activities are tools to help them develop life skills, stay resilient and build relationships.”

Faz is full of admiration for Jahida.

“She has been the backbone of Metamorphosis Coaching; it truly is a passion for her.”

“Like myself, she is the Head of Wellbeing at her school where she teaches Primary and she is also very sports-orientated.”

“It’s very important that your partner is understanding and has the same values and Jahida is not only my wife and the mother of our three great children but she is my best friend.”

Faz and Jahida both believe that learning never stops.

In spite of their hectic schedules, each is currently pursuing further tertiary education, recognising that personal growth is an ongoing journey.

Faz reflected on his own life and the impact he has had on his former students.

“Many of them are now fathers themselves,” he says proudly.

“They tell me I made a difference to them and that means a lot; it’s a reminder that the values I live by and share can have a lasting influence.”

“My own kids keep me grounded – their presence reminds me every day about the importance of leading by example,” he says.

“My goal is to leave a legacy of honesty, kindness and service – actions that truly make a difference – and living according to your faith and acting with integrity and kindness is essential.”

“Sport is a fantastic way to build relationships and bring people together as it teaches teamwork, resilience and how to handle setbacks.”

His advice for young Muslim men is simple: “Put in the effort and do the hard yards”.

“My motto is, ‘‘get comfortable with being uncomfortable’ – that’s how you grow and stay true to your values – both in sport and in life.”