The Plus500 Brumbies will launch a brand-new jersey when they meet the Reds at GIO Stadium this weekend in the Pasifika Round.
The jersey, inspired by the cultural heritage of our Pacific Island players honours the enormous contribution Pasifika cultures and players have made to the Brumbies.
In 2019 over 50% of Brumbies players have Pasifika heritage representing the Maori people of Aotearoa (New Zealand) and the people of Samoa, Tonga, Fiji, Niue and the Cook Islands. The cultures of all these peoples are represented on the jersey.
This unique jersey has been designed by the 2019 Brumbies Pasifika players who all contributed to the particular patterns of their cultures. The jersey includes symbols which tell the stories of their traditions and heritage; stories which mean a great deal to the players and their families.
The key themes of each pattern are shown below together with acknowledgement of the specific artist and the players who contributed. This unique jersey, which is sure to be extremely popular with Brumbies fans, will be available for purchase at the stadium on matchday.The official game-worn jerseys will then be put up for auction after the final whistle. More details of the auction will be available on our club website and social media channels next week.
The Pasifika Round will feature several themed activities and cultural performances with tickets available for what is sure to a fantastic occasions as we meet the Reds for the Rod Macqueen trophy available from www.ticketek.com.au.#PasifikaRound - This Saturday, the Plus500 Brumbies will hold our first Pasifika Round when we take on the Reds, celebrating the rich and varied culture of the Pacific Island Nations!
— Plus500 Brumbies (@BrumbiesRugby) June 11, 2019
>> https://t.co/rO0eUOZDWW#BrumbiesFamily#FillTheFortres pic.twitter.com/24LSxOZ9eL
Post-match the Brumbies will be presented with the Australian Conference Championship trophy by Rugby Australia CEO Raelene Castle and there will also be a special on-field presentation to Sio to mark his century of appearances for the club.
Maori
Artist: Mauhana Eyles
Players: Rory Arnold, Jahrome Brown, Wharenui Hawera, Chance Peni, Lausii Taliauli
Themes: Hauora (Health/Nutrition/Strength), Kotahitanga (Unity/As one), Manaia (Protection)
Samoa
Artist: Angelique Sloss
Players: Allan Alaalatoa, Len Ikitau, Christian Lealiifano, Les Leuluaialii-Makin,
Noah Lolesio, Pete Samu, Irae Simone, Scott Sio, Darcy Swain
Themes: Pe’a tatau (traditional male tattoo). Is a rite of passage, symbol of service to Aiga (family) and Matai (chiefs), and sign of respect for Fa’a Samoa (Samoan culture)
Tonga
Artist: Folau Fainga’a
Players: Folau Fainga’a, Vunipola Fifita, Toni Pulu, Lausii Taliauli
Themes: Family, Power, Life, Protection, Earth/Sun
Fiji
Artist: Jo Pareti
Players: Tevita Kuridrani, Henry Speight, Rob Valetini
Themes: Family, Oval ball shape signifies the power of rugby to unite Fijians from all backgrounds
Niue
Artist: Juwan Agaimalo
Players: Scott Sio
Themes: Niuean Uga (giant coconut crab). Is a much sought after food source and its importance in Niuean culture is indicated by its protection by the god, Haliua.
Cook Islands
Artist: Tonez Tangiiti
Players: Chance Peni, Toni Pulu
Themes: Family/Unity, Fighting Back to Back, Leadership, Strength/Courage
