The West Coast Eagles unveiled their inaugural AFLW Indigenous guernsey, designed by artist, Buffie Corunna last week.
The design was also guided by West Coast forward Imahra Cameron, and past player Alicia Janz, which represents First Nations people across both Western Australia and Australia.
Corunna’s artwork tells the story of the club’s strong connection to community and cross-cultural connections amongst the team – with the circles surrounding the jumper representing the coaches, players, the staff, the members and the community – and the largest circle representing the AFLW team.
The lines leading into the largest circle represent the strong connections needed within the club.
“I think it’s pretty special, I feel very proud to be able to wear a guernsey that’s designed just for us,” Cameron said.
“As female footballers, running into this round, something to have of our own, that also represents the Indigenous round.
“To be able to run out in the Indigenous guernsey, I’m very proud to be able to represent myself and my culture in the sport that I love to play.”
Cameron presented the Indigenous guernsey to the playing group ahead of the round seven clash against Richmond, where West Coast wore the jumper for the first time.
The forward explained the meaning behind both the guernsey, and what it represents to her.
“It was pretty special to be able to present the guernsey to the girls, it shows our respect and acknowledgement and contribution to the game that we all love,” Cameron said.
West Coast captain Emma Swanson was also proud to learn about the intricacies involved in the Eagles’ inaugural AFLW Indigenous guernsey from Cameron and acknowledges what the guernsey represents to her.
“I think it’s really special for ‘Marsy’ and I am really proud to be able to run out in this guernsey, just knowing what it must mean for her,” Swanson said.
“To be able to have a jumper that represents and empowers First Nations people is important.
“I’m grateful to be able to wear the first ever AFLW Indigenous guernsey across both round seven and round eight.
“Especially knowing what it must mean for ‘Marsy’ and the First Nations community.
"I'm immensely proud to play a small part in the Indigenous round by wearing the jumper and I'm grateful for everything the First Nations community has done for this amazing game.
"It’s really special.”