Eddie Betts and his family have been overwhelmed by the response to Adelaide’s new Indigenous jumper.
Designed by Eddie’s Aunt Susie, the vibrant and culturally significant jumper will be on show in the Club’s Indigenous Round clash with Greater Western Sydney at Adelaide Oval in Round 10.
The design features a crow in full flight on a navy blue base, surrounded by red, gold and white circles and dots. The artwork tells the story of the crow or the ‘Garnga’, as he is known in the Wirangu culture, who plays an important role spiritually.
The jumper also features the ‘R’ RECOGNISE logo, which represents the Club’s ongoing commitment to recognising Aboriginal and Torres Strait Island people in the Australian Constitution.
The new design was unveiled a fortnight ago and has proved a hit with not only Crows supporters, but football fans across the country.
“It’s fantastic to see that a jumper telling the story of our family, our culture and Garnga – the magic man – is being so well received,” Betts said.
“Seeing all the boys wearing this jumper, representing the Adelaide Football Club in Indigenous Round will be a proud moment for my family, our people and the Club.”
The AFL’s Indigenous Round, which will now be known as the Sir Doug Nicholls Round, recognises and celebrates the contribution Indigenous players have made to the game.
The round and the game of football itself is an excellent platform to promote greater understanding of the Indigenous culture throughout the community. Betts said the education process was ongoing.
“Football can help break down the barriers between Indigenous and non-Indigenous people in a positive way,” he said.
“As a society I think we’ve come a long way but, unfortunately, there are still people out there who think it’s acceptable to vilify others based on their colour or cultural background.
“For this reason, we must continue to educate people, both young and old.”
The Adelaide Football Club is currently in the process of establishing a Reconciliation Action Plan, and has introduced a Welcome to Country on the Adelaide Oval big screen at all home games.