Indigenous impact reaching new level
mother who was desperate to introduce me to her three boys. She introduced them as ‘ Johnathan Thurston’, ‘Justin Hodges’ and ‘Sam Thaiday’. “That’s a true story. “When little Johnathan Thurston was only three and he started to run away, she’d call out, ‘JT, come back’.
“This game means a lot to a lot of people, and our indigenous community is so fundamental to who we are and what we stand for.’’
Instead of being forced to deal with dreadful cocaine headlines from the weekend, the NRL would have been hoping for this image of a smiling 16 players decked out in some fantastic indigenousinspired jerseys to be the big taking point.
Stories like that of the mother in the Top End naming her kids after Queensland and Australian greats should be told more.
For the first time every club will wear the special jerseys this weekend, with Penrith centre Tyrone Peachey admitting this was the one special design his father always requested.
“The jersey is awesome, and the old man (Martin) always hits me up after the game for it, I love playing in it and love giving it to him afterwards,’’ Peachey said.
“It’s really important for me, Penrith has a big indigenous culture, and a lot of fans who come to the game.’’
Cronulla powerhouse prop Andrew Fifita loved his Kangaroos return last Friday, but was just as proud about this special weekend.
“To recognise the first people of Australia, to put on our heritage jersey and give back to our people this weekend with all 16 teams is a massive advantage for us,’’ Fifita said
Of the 77 NRL debutants last season, 13 were indigenous, while five indigenous players have already made their NRL debuts in the opening nine rounds this year.