NBL Store Melbourne United 25/26 Indigenous Jersey in Shea Ili

Artist: Ky-ya Nicholson-Ward

Ky-ya Nicholson-Ward is a 22 year old Wurundjeri, Dja Dja Wurrung, Ngurai illum Wurrung, German and Irish woman and is based in Naarm (Melbourne). Ky-ya is a passionate First Nations artist who tells the stories of her ancestors, family and Country.She also uses her art to educate and to advocate political issues around the world. Ky-ya is also an activist, educator, mentor and dancer with Djirri Djirri Cultural Services.

Jersey Design: Bunjil & Stars

Bunjil is Wurundjeris creator spirit, in the physical form of the Wedge Tailed Eagle. He gave life and breath to every living thing. Bunjil is a sign of guidance, connection to culture and honouring Wurundjeri people, Country and culture. Bunjils spirit lives in Tharangalk Biik (Tha-rraan-garlk beek) which translates in the Woiwurrung language to forest country above the clouds which is Star Country. In the design there are many stars to honour Star Country. There is also the star Altair which is the eagle star apart of the Aquila constellation. Our creation narratives and stories are told through the stars. Bunjil watches us in his physical form in Wurru Wurru Biik (Woo-rroo Woo-rroo Beek) which is Sky Country.

Meeting Place: The meeting place symbolises gathering together for a purpose and celebrates the community, culture and environment at Narrm United. Honouring all the people involved with the club, including supporters, volunteers, staff, coaches, families and the players.

Possum Skin Panels: The panels are a symbol of honouring possum skin cloaks and our elders. Possum skin cloaks are a significant cultural aspect of Wurundjeri culture and a lot of Southeastern First Nations mobs, worn by elders. Its honouring the knowledge and wisdom our elders have and pass on from generation to generation. As a baby you are given a single skin with your totem burnt and etched into it. As you get older you receive more skins that are stitched together using marram (kangaroo) tail sinew and a bone needle. Women wear possum skin belts whilst dancing and conducting ceremony and eventually when you are an elder you have a cloak with your whole life story burnt and etched into it. Symbolising the journey of growth and every players individual life stories. Its also a symbol of comfort, as it hugs you, just as culture and community wrap you in their arms. The designs within the panels have been used since time immemorial by my ancestors and depict Wurundjeris carving culture, as we carve into boomerangs, shields, cloaks, spears etc.

Blue Swirly Lines: The blue swirly lines represent the journey of truth telling and true reconciliation, where we can walk together side by side free from discrimination, racism and disadvantages, through respect and willingness to learn. We are the oldest continuous living culture in the world and thats something we should all be proud of and acknowledge as a nation.

Diamond Linework (Side Panels): The diamond linework depicts the resilience and strength of First Nations peoples in Australia but also all over the world. It also relates to the resilience of the players and the club throughout each season.

Champion brings its signature quality to the court with the Melbourne United 25/26 Indigenous Jersey Shea Ili. Designed for performance and style, this jersey is crafted with premium fabrics for superior comfort and durability. Featuring detailed team wordmarks, player name, and number in high-quality fabric appliqus with Champion C and NBL logos made from silicon for an authentic and top quality finish.