The Western Force will proudly wear an Indigenous-inspired home and away jersey during the 2022 Super Rugby Pacific season.
Created by Nyoongar artist Darryl Bellotti, the design features prominently on both jerseys to ensure the Force represent Western Australia’s proud Indigenous heritage in every match this year.
The swirls represent the Derbarl Yerrigan (Swan River) with the circular patterns showing the Boodja (land) of all the different regions within WA. The curved lines symbolise the journey the club has taken, while the swirls demonstrate the ripples in the water caused by the Maali (black swan).
Bellotti describes the unique design as one intended to create a sense of belonging for all Western Australian’s.
“I took inspiration from the Derbarl Yerrigan, the Boodja (land) and intertwined these with the journey lines showing the history of the Force,” Bellotti explained.
“So much of Nyoongar culture revolves around the water, it holds a sacred significance to it, so to involve the Derbarl Yerrigan and connect it to the Sea of Blue, the passionate and loyal fans, was fantastic. The water is the life source, much like the fans are for the club. “The Force may play here in Perth in Nyoongar country, but they are also representing the entire state, so I made sure to frame the design to show the four corners of WA.”
As one of 14 Indigenous players to play for the Wallabies, former Western Force captain and record games holder Matt Hodgson insists this is a hugely positive and vital step for the club to take.
“Following the success we had with the First Nations Round last year and the pride we felt putting on that jersey, we decided as an organisation to ensure we did more to represent and engage with the Indigenous community within WA,” Hodgson, general manager of rugby said.
“The First Nations people are such an integral part of this state’s history, so we want to represent them in everything that we do, not just on game day.
“We are committed to growing the game outside the Perth metro area to engage and connect with the wider Western Australian communities. This is one step in that process, and we recognise there’s a lot more work to do in that space, but this is a significant and exciting moment in that journey.”
Chief executive officer Tony Lewis is delighted with the initiative, how it acknowledges the past and what it represents for the future.
“As a club, we strive to be the leading force in everything we do, so to be the first rugby team in the country to incorporate an Indigenous design for our home and away jerseys is something we’re immensely proud of,” Lewis stated.
“It’s truly special to have the whole club behind it and after having seen the jerseys receive a water blessing from Professor Simon Forrest, we want people to know that this is just the beginning, and we are determined to continue to engage with the Indigenous community throughout WA.”
