Rivar grew up in a proud, tight-knit Collingwood family and still lives in the housing towers on Hoddle Street, overlooking the historic Victoria Park.
At just 22, he has just welcomed his third child. A young father carrying big responsibilities, and an even bigger heart.
Life hasn’t been easy for Rivar. He was exposed to violence from a young age and because of this, he's developed an incredible sense of resilience and street smarts.
But through it all, footy has been his safe place. A place where he could just 'be a kid', especially during those cherished outings to the footy with his dad growing up. Those early memories forged a deep, unshakable bond with the black and white stripes.
One of five members of his family to pull on the jumper for the Collingwood Magpies Community Team, Rivar is now in his fourth season with the program, and is a passionate, committed player who brings heart, hustle and leadership.
After long night shifts on the railways, Rivar often heads straight to training or game day without sleep, driven by a fierce determination to stay connected, stay positive and build a better future for his young family. Now, he’s looking at starting a course in youth work to give back to young people going through similar hardships.
The Collingwood Football Club spoke to Rivar to find out more about what drives him.
You’ve been involved in the program for four years now. What is it about the Magpies Community Football Team that keeps you coming back?
RIVAR: The best thing about being part of the Magpies’ program is that it really is more than just footy. It’s about people, connection and belonging to something.
Over the years, I’ve built friendships that have lasted well beyond the season.
What are you most proud of this season, or is there anything you’ve learned about yourself?
RIVAR: The biggest thing I’ve learned this year is that I can achieve. I’ve proven to myself that I’ve got the drive, the willpower and the commitment to stay the course, even when life throws curveballs.
With everything I’ve been through in the past, I honestly never pictured myself being in this kind of space, mentally or physically. Now, here I am. About to welcome a new baby into the world and I’m proud of where I’m at. I’ve put in the work, made better choices and built something solid for my little family. That makes me hold my head high.
I know now that I’m capable of more than I ever thought.
How has being a part of the team impacted you outside of footy?
RIVAR: Absolutely it’s changed things for me. Being a part of this team has meant everything and I know many of my family from the area have been a part of this too.
There are moments that stick with you, like when my daughter looks up at me and says, ‘Daddy, I can’t wait to watch you tomorrow’. That hits deep. That makes it all worth it.
Being a part of something positive, something consistent, helps you build yourself back up - not just as a player, but as a man.
What do you enjoy most about the program?
RIVAR: Everyone there understands what it’s like to be juggling stuff and we lift each other up. Out there, I feel proud wearing the jumper. I feel like I’m part of something. Not just as a player, but as a dad, a mate and a young man who’s trying to do better.
“For a lot of the boys, these are new experiences that help build confidence."
It's more than just a footy program - it's development. It's growth. It's opportunity, in my opinion. The coaches don’t care about how we play; they care about how we live. Getting access to things like gym sessions, cooking classes and wellbeing activities, that’s stuff no one really offers us elsewhere.
