Highlighting Indigenous footy in the westABORIGINAL players from each of the nine WAFL clubs, which will also include West Perth and Fremantle player Stephen Hill, will showcase their specially designed NAIDOC Week guernseys at Subiaco Oval tomorrow.
For the very first time in Australian sporting history, all clubs in one competition will participate in the National Aboriginal and Islander Day Observance Committee (NAIDOC) celebrations across two weekends, beginning in Round 15 on July 4 and continuing in Round 16 on July 10 and 11.
Aboriginal WAFL umpire Brandon Simpson will also be involved in the NAIDOC celebrations.
During the NAIDOC weekends, all players will wear uniforms specially designed by Aboriginal artist Richard Walley. Richard has incorporated various Aboriginal themes into all nine WAFL club jumpers based on their history.
The Department of Indigenous Affairs has funded the production of all jumpers and is the sponsor of the WAFL NAIDOC weekends.
WA Football Commission director of football Grant Dorrington said the WAFL was very excited about this year's NAIDOC events.
"With the two WAFL clubs, Claremont and South Fremantle, initiating this journey in 2007, it has taken only two years for the WAFL NAIDOC themed rounds to come into fruition," he said.
NAIDOC celebrations are held around Australia in July each year to celebrate the history, culture and achievements of Indigenous Australians.
WAFC marketing executive Nathan Durham said NAIDOC weekends were also very important rounds for the development of WA football.
"There are many Indigenous Australians associated with football and there are many Indigenous football players who play a big part in our community," he said. "NAIDOC is one of the key ways for Indigenous people to recognise their heritage."
South Fremantle chief executive officer Brian Ciccotosto said the event would also help raise the profile of Indigenous participation in Australia Football.
"Our club is very proud of the achievements of its Indigenous players ever since Jimmy Melbourne first played for the club in 1902," he said. "They have brought a style of play to football which has pleased football audiences Australia-wide."
South Fremantle Football Club will also announce its Indigenous Team of the Century during NAIDOC week in Round 15.
WEST AUSTRALIAN FOOTBALL LEAGUE
WA Football.com.au
Tuesday, June 30, 2009
Last Modified on 30/06/2009 12:35