AFLW Indigenous Round Launch

For the first time in the history of the league, the AFLW will have its own standalone Indigenous ball design for their Indigenous Rounds, which fall in Rounds 7 and 8. Created by South Australian artist Gabrielle Stengle, who comes from Kaurna Country. On top of the design, Sherrin is also changing its name on the ball to Tidna Parntu, which represents Australian Rules Football in Kaurna Country. This name change is also a first for Sherrin for AFLW.

“The waterholes are connected through journey lines to represent the journey of the AFLW community”, Stengle said.

“The Kangaroo tracks represent the AFLW’s vision of always moving forward and never backwards. The base emulates the ‘Coolamon’, a tool predominately used by woman for gathering food, berries and to hold their babies.

“The Coolamon was carved from trees and decorated with burn marks or natural points. These can be found throughout Australia connecting us through culture and as women.”

The ball design includes 7 different colours used for the yellow ball and 6 colours used for the making of the red ball, with over 12 hours needed for printing the design onto the panels. 211 AFLW Indigenous game balls were made in total; 123 yellow game balls, and 88 red. Watch the making of the AFLW Indigenous game ball here.

For those who would like to get their hands on this year’s AFLW Indigenous Round game balls, a limited number will be available on sherrin.com.au. 15% of sales will be donated to the GO Foundation, an organisation founded by AFL legends Adam Goodes and Michael O’Loughlin.