But for now, the talented utility is looking forward to the Dubai Sevens in December.

Murphy is living the dream as a contracted member of the Australian Women’s Sevens team she trains five days a week, and travels the world playing this exciting version of the game.

However, she regularly takes time out to visit schools and stress importance of getting a good education.

On Thursday Murphy was in Singleton and she spoke to the 64 boys enrolled at the school’s newly established Clontarf Academy. She also incorporated a training session which is what the academy is all about – using sport to engage young male aboriginal students. 

The ultimate goal is to ensure this at risk group feel supported so they complete Year 12 and successfully transition into full-time employment, or further studies.

Singleton Clontarf Academy director, Joel Parsons says Murphy is the latest sports star, who is passionate about closing the gap, to visit the school.

“We have had a few male speakers come, like Jamie Lyons and Josh Starling, and  the boys travelled down to Sydney to meet the Penrith Panthers during the last round of the NRL competition,” he explains.

“But I invited Mahalia so the boys could hear from a strong, indigenous female role model.”

Although the academy has only been operating since Term Two attendance levels have already improved, Joel says.

Joel has plenty of experience working with young people as prior to this he was a Police Youth Case manager.

Former PE teacher Clark Stanford assists Joel, and together they are making a difference.

From taking the boys to many inter-academy sporting competitions, and picking them up twice-a-week before school to play a game of choice, they are not just there for the boys during school hours.

Establishing community partnerships is also a big part the program, and this helps to provide the boys with tangible rewards for working hard.