The Canberra Raiders NRLW team will wear an Indigenous jersey for the first time this weekend in the competition’s inaugural Indigenous Round.
The team will wear a similar jersey to the NRL side signifying both Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture. The jersey was designed by artist Shaenice Miles with consultation with Eric Babia, the uncle of Raiders star Sebastian Kris.
The Raiders NRLW squad includes Grace Kemp (Wiradjuri), Relna Wuruki-Hosea (Wakaid, Argun, Goemulayg and Theppithiggi) and Madyson Tooth (Dharug).
The team will play at home against the Brisbane Broncos in Indigenous Round this Sunday, a standalone match at GIO Stadium Canberra kicking off at 1.45pm.
While Kemp will miss the game through injury, she is excited to see the team play in the club’s first NRLW Indigenous jersey in the inaugural NRLW Indigenous Round.
“It’s so special. Not only for us but also for past players that have Indigenous heritage just like our very own Katrina Fanning,” Kemp said.
“I think it’s a big step in the right direction. For young Indigenous kids and our elders, for us to be able to showcase this jersey in front of them and to play for them is so special.
“Every game we play for our elders that came before us and for those who can’t play. I play for my heritage every time I take the field but for there to be a special round that is dedicated to it, it’s huge.
“Seeing young Indigenous boys and girls in the stands and having Katrina on the sidelines it’s just highlighting that it’s such a special occasion. We are playing on Ngunnawal country this weekend which is super special.
“My football started on Wiradjuri country which I’m very proud of. It’s a very special occasion and I’m really excited to share it with my sisters.”
Wuruki-Hosea said she’s excited to play her first game of the season in Indigenous Round.
“It will mean a lot to my family and I think for the rest of the Indigenous girls in the team, it will mean a lot to showcase our talent. On the jersey with the design it shows the story and the legacy coming through of our Indigenous athletes,” Wuruki-Hosea said.
“It is really special for this club because also in the NRL there’s also a couple of Torres Strait Island boys (Xavier Savage and Sebastian Kris). With the jersey it also showcases Torres Strait Island background as well as Aboriginal which is pretty special.”
