Richmond is proud to unveil its 2023 AFLW Dreamtime guernsey, designed by the Club’s first-ever Indigenous AFLW player, Larrakia, Iwaidja Murun woman Stephanie Williams.
The famous yellow sash on the black design has been illustrated with weaving by Williams’ mother, Larrakia artist Lorraine Williams- who has had her weaving technique passed down through generations.
“My mother learned her weaving technique through her elders and observations she has made since she was a young child,” Williams said.
“The inclusion of this weaving represents the coming together of our Richmond team and broader staff through our strong connection with each other and the combination of our life stories to forge who we are.
“It represents everyone becoming one into the sash and that it is a journey and an unfinished journey.”
A yam stick, which women commonly use in Indigenous culture, is also depicted on the guernsey and handprints placed with a spray technique from Williams’ grandfather’s country in Western Arnhem Land.
“Our saltwater people would use the stick to dig for shellfish. I have placed it under the sash to represent the women on our team who have dug deep to play the game,” Williams said.
“I reflected on our women athletes’ sacrifices to juggle roles outside of football while still performing to the best of their ability when including this element on the jumper.
“We have different things that we bring to the table- but we are all digging deep and are out there playing and doing the best that we can as elite sportswomen.”
The handprints are that of Williams as the first Richmond Indigenous AFLW player and captain, Katie Brennan, who was the Club’s inaugural signing in 2019.
“This was important to me- it represents our mark on the Richmond Football Club and the Club’s women’s football journey,” Williams said.
“It is about leaving your mark and leaving it on the game. It is a really special thing, and it has a deep meaning.
“It looks really wonderful and has that cultural meaning intertwining into Indigenous Round and a new chapter of women in the AFLW.”
Fans can purchase their 2023 AFLW Dreamtime guernsey from the Roar Store here.
