The AFL has launched the 2013 Indigenous Round along with AFL St Kilda player Nicky Winmar.
Round Nine of the Toyota AFL Premiership season will celebrate the theme ‘Identity’, inspired by the 20 year anniversary of Nicky Winmar’s extraordinary stance at Victoria Park.
AFL Head of Diversity Jason Mifsud said Nicky’s moment has played an integral part in the identity of our game.
“Raising his guernsey, Nicky created an unforgettable symbol of identity - purpose and pride in his Aboriginality.
“This year we are celebrating the theme identity which recognises Indigenous cultures, customs and traditions, across the 320 nations and 500 language groups.
“Indigenous Round is a celebration of our country's Indigenous players and their contribution which has shaped Australia's Game - a game that unites us all, players and fans, standing as one.”
“A number of events will be happening across Australia this week to recognise the Round, with the flagship event being the ‘Dreamtime at G’ match in Melbourne between Richmond and Essendon.
“This week is also an opportunity for the players to share their stories about their own country and their Indigenous identity.”
Essendon’s Patrick Ryder, of the Watjarri mob reflected on the importance of staging Indigenous Round.
“Indigenous Round not only allows us to showcase the talent that Indigenous people bring to the game but helps celebrate the huge impact AFL has on indigenous players and its communities,” Patrick Ryder said.
In 2013 there are 67 Indigenous players.
Highlights of AFL Darling Downs Indigenous Round include:
- All A Grade matches to feature a Welcome to Country performed by either an Indigenous elder or club President
- Souvenir Indigenous Round themed booklet
- Indigenous players leading their teams as captains for the day
- Coaching sessions conducted at Rockville SS & St Joseph's Murgon PS
Last Modified on 02/06/2013 17:23