For proud Rabbitoh, Alga and Erub man Dane Nielsen, learning about his Indigenous culture and heritage began at home.
From a young age growing up in North Queensland, the Rabbitohs outside back was taught about his people, his ancestors and his culture from his mother and grandparents.
Now, with the Rabbitohs set to celebrate those same Indigenous roots this Thursday against the Dragons with a special Indigenous jersey, Nielsen has spoken about his pride in being passed down his story from family.
“My mum made sure I knew where I come from – from my ancestors, my grandparents,” reflected Nielsen.
“It’s very special to have that involvement with the jersey. Growing up in North Queensland, there’s a lot of Indigenous people up there – it’s very special for my mum to teach me a lot of things.
“Obviously times have changed a lot since the stories that my mum has taught me. But I’ve never forgot where I’ve come from and mum’s been a big part of that, and my grandparents have been part of that as well.
“It’s very special to represent them (family) with this jersey.”
The jersey that will be worn by the Rabbitohs this week is designed by Sydney-based Indigenous designer, Nikita Ridgeway, and tells the stories of six of the Club’s Indigenous players including captain Inglis, Indigenous All Stars representatives Kyle Turner, Alex Johnston, Chris Grevsmuhl and Dane Nielsen, as well as Rabbitohs 2016 debutant Cody Walker.
Two important Australian organisations with a focus on Indigenous people and causes, KARI Aboriginal Resources and Recognise, also feature on the jersey thanks to Rabbitohs co-major partner Crown Resorts.
Stay tuned to Rabbitohs.com.au as we roll out interviews with our Indigenous Rabbitohs players, community leaders and a whole lot more in the coming week!
Click here for Match Day Information.
Purchase your tickets to the Club’s Indigenous Round celebration at ANZ Stadium by clicking here!
Purchase your very own Rabbitohs 2016 jersey, also AVAILABLE IN WOMENS, by clicking here!
Music courtesy of Glen & Matt Doyle.
