Players to shake a leg for tradition

SOUTH Sydney’s indigenous players will pay tribute to their proud heritage by performing the “shake-a-leg” as a post try celebration.

Gladys Tybingoompa performed the traditional dance on the front steps of the High Court of Australia 23 years ago after the Wik decision, a historic win for Aboriginal people and their fight for native title rights, making nationwide news.

Tonight, the “shake-a-leg” will capture the country’s imagination yet again thanks to some of rugby league’s biggest stars.

Rabbitohs five-eighth Cody Walker is encouraging not only his indigenous but all his teammates to participate.

“It’s a dance of respect and we do it in the corroboree. I’ve never tried to do it in footy boots, so I’m not sure how that’s going to go. Dane Gagai does it very well too,” he said.

“It’s a great sign of respect and a way of really admiring Aboriginal culture. I think it would be great for everyone to try it. I think it will be well received by everyone in the public if non-indigenous people do it. It wouldn’t be a sign of mockery it would be a great sign of respect.”