The Western Force is proud to unveil its First Nations Round jersey to be worn against the Crusaders on Saturday 7 May at HBF Park.
With the Force incorporating an Indigenous design in its home and away jerseys, staff apparel and branding this year, the jersey and the First Nations Round presents a wonderful opportunity to celebrate and acknowledge the traditional custodians of Western Australia.
WHERE TO BUY: You can purchase your very own Western Force First Nations Jersey at this Saturday's game against the Crusaders or order from the online store HERE.
Designed by renowned Nyoongar artist Darryl Bellotti, in collaboration with the Force’s in-house Design Lead Cameron Jones, the jersey features the powerful Maali (black swan) launching from the Derbarl Yerrigan (Swan River).
The Maali is surrounded by grass reeds, which grow around the edges of the rivers and waterways in the south west of Western Australia.
Each player number has an intricate version of the Maali at its base instead of the usual logo. Moving up to the back collar you can then see the Maali again in more detail. Finally, on the collar itself, are the Nyoongar words 'Moorditj Maali'. The term Moorditj meaning strength or solidness, and the Maali being the word for black swan.
With a clear emphasis on acknowledging the history of Indigenous culture within Western Australia, Bellotti said: “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.”
“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.”
As one of 14 Indigenous players to play for the Wallabies, former Western Force captain and current general manager of rugby Matt Hodgson said: “I’m very proud to be part of a club that celebrates Indigenous culture in a meaningful and purposeful way.” “We stated at the beginning of the year that the jersey designs are just the beginning, and we are determined to continue to engage with the broader Indigenous community throughout WA in the years to come. “We are on an exciting journey together and this is another step in the right direction.”
The Force play the Crusaders at HBF Park this Saturday at 5:45pm in the Super Rugby Pacific First Nations Round.
