Thunder unveil First Nations Kit
Link to offical article - https://www.sydneythunder.com.au/news/4395220/thunder-unveil-first-nations-kit
Sydney Thunder have unveiled their new First Nations kit, designed by Rheanna Lotter, a Western Sydney-based Yuin artist, in collaboration with WBBL players Hannah Darlington (Kamilaroi) and Anika Learoyd (Gumbaynggir).
Titled Jaanymili – a Gumbaynggir word meaning gathering, coming together and connecting – the shirt tells the story of Darlington and Learoyd’s journeys, from family, to meeting each other and growing together through cricket.
Darlington’s totem Kaputhin (the Eagle) and Learoyd’s totem Gaagal (the Ocean) are featured on the back alongside their families.
While celebrating the club’s proud First Nations players, the design also represents all Thunder players, symbolized by the 'U' in the central meeting place.
The thunderbolt reflects the energy and power created when players, staff, sponsors, fans, and the wider community come together - united as the Thunder Nation.
Lotter has designed Thunder’s First Nations kits for community and elite teams since 2016. However, this is the first time she’s collaborated with players.
Rheanna Lotter said: "I really appreciated working with the girls this year... They wear it, it’s their story and I think they feel a bit more of a connection to it... Exposure is the biggest thing in our culture, so having a design that everybody can see and feel connected to is really important and I think that’s only going to start conversations.
Hannah Darlington said:“It’s really special to see our journeys and our culture represented through this design. Rheanna has done an amazing job capturing the connection Anika and I share, not just as teammates but as proud First Nations women. To wear this shirt is a reminder of where we come from and the people who’ve helped us along the way.”
Anika Learoyd said:“Being part of creating Jaanymili has been such a meaningful experience. The design tells a story of coming together - of family, community and cricket - and it’s something I’m incredibly proud to wear. It’s a powerful way to celebrate First Nations culture and what it means to be part of the Thunder family.”
𝐉𝐚𝐚𝐧𝐲𝐦𝐢𝐥𝐢 | Unveiling Sydney Thunder's First Nations Kit
The kit, which will be worn by Thunder’s WBBL and BBL teams this summer, is set to be debuted on November 19 as part of Thunder’s First Nations Round at Drummoyne Oval. The club will honour and celebrate Indigenous culture with cultural performances and activities. Click here to grab your tickets!