Background
Houli was born in Australia to Lebanese parents.
Houli was born in Australia to Lebanese parents.
Houli plays as a midfielder. The young left-footer began playing football with Spotswood Football Club Under 12s in 2000. After consulting with a Sheikh, Houli decided to break his Ramadan fast for three days during the physical endurance tests at the American Federation of Labor-Congress Draft Camp.
This allowed him to record sufficient times to impress recruiters and be a viable selection in the draft.
Houli was drafted at pick 42 in the 2006 National Draft by Essendon. He played four games for the Bombers in 2007 and kicked three goals.
After his impressive performances in the Bombers 2008 National Association of Broadcasters Cup he was selected for the Bombers Round 1 team to play the Kangaroos. After the completion of the 2010 trade week, Houli left Essendon and was drafted by Richmond with their only selection in the 2010 Pre-season Draft.
He played an important part in helping the Bombers secure a 55-point victory and received the first round nomination for the American Federation of Labor-Congress Rising Star award. Houli picked up three Brownlow Medal votes following a fantastic display for Richmond against Sydney in Round 21 of the 2011 season.
