St Kilda young gun Jade Gresham proud to represent his people in the jumper he helped create

IT’S now 25 years since Nicky Winmar lifted his jumper, pointed to his skin and declared how proud he was to be Aboriginal. That act continues to inspire a generation, including St Kilda young gun Jade Gresham.

Jade Gresham in St Kilda’s indigenous jumper. Picture: Michael Klein

TALENTED St Kilda forward Jade Gresham not only knows the story behind Nicky Winmar’s brave stance against racism 25 years ago, he has been lucky enough to meet the former Saint.

While the 20-year-old has always been proud of his indigenous heritage, the opportunity to speak with Winmar about his experiences a generation ago heightened his appreciation for the footballers who came before him — and pride in his own background.

It’s now 25 years since Winmar lifted his jumper, pointed to his skin and declared how proud he was to be black. That act, and others that followed, helped to kickstart a revolution.

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For Gresham, who along with his mother Michelle helped to design the Saints’ indigenous jumper in honour of their links to the Yorta Yorta people, the opportunity to represent his club — and his people — in this weekend’s Sir Doug Nicholls Round is one that he cherishes.

“I’ve met him (Winmar) a few times now,” said Gresham, who kicked six goals last week.

Nicky Winmar lifts his jumper and points to his skin.

“He comes down to the club a bit and it is great to speak with him. He’s a legend, and what he did that day (in 1993) is so special when you think about it.”

It’s the second year in a row the Saints have worn the Gresham-designed jumper.

The tricolours were refashioned to represent a geographical representation of the Yorta Yorta land (between the Goulburn and Murray Rivers), with the turtle shell running through the red and black panels, as well as patterns reflecting the forests, wetlands and lifestyle.

“I am so proud of my culture, and my family are pretty big on it,” he said. “It is awesome to represent your people.”

Gresham grew up in the Melbourne suburb of Mill Park — and playing junior footy with Preston RSL (until he was 12) and South Morang — idolising the likes of Lance Franklin and Cyril Rioli.

He got to meet a host of indigenous AFL players from other clubs at the preseason camp in Darwin, and wants to help play a role in inspiring young Aboriginal hopefuls.

For the moment, though, his attention is fixed on helping to arrest the Saints’ frustrating start to the 2018 season. St Kilda defeated Brisbane in Round 1, but has not won a game since.

Gresham is convinced that losing streak will end soon, perhaps as early as this week against West Coast in Perth.

“We matched it with Richmond for three quarters last week,” he said. “I guess we know when we bring our best footy, we can match it with the best sides in the competition.

Jade Gresham in St Kilda’s indigenous jumper. Picture: Michael Klein

“We’re working so hard on and off the track on our game. I have no doubt it will turn soon.”

Gresham was the Saints’ best player against the Tigers last week, kicking 6.0 — a rare feat of accuracy in a season of misses for St Kilda.

It was his 50th game, but he had to temper his enthusiasm for his own performance, given the result.

“I got on the end of a few (goals), but I was pretty pleased with my game,” he said. “But we didn’t get the job done, so hopefully we can do that against the Eagles this week.

He said the Saints were desperate to start winning for their coach Alan Richardson, who has been under external pressure.

“Richo has been awesome, he lets me go out and play, and he gives me heaps of confidence,” he said. “He is a real father-figure. I love playing under him, and I know he is definitely the coach for us going forward.”

Jade Gresham celebrates one of his six goals last week. Picture: AAP Images

JADE’S HOPE FOR FUTURE STARS

YOUNG Saint Jade Gresham hopes he can help provide a platform for the next generation of Saints’ indigenous talent by assisting in a scholarship program for the club’s Next Generation Academy.

Ten youngsters — nine boys and a girl aged between 12 and 17 — have been awarded scholarships to foster their involvement in the game.

Gresham launched the scholarship with former St Kilda and now Saints Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Programs Manager Allan Murray, with the pair hoping it can one day see some of the teenagers drafted back to the Saints.

“It’s been great to be able to get out and help some of the indigenous kids,” Gresham said. “I guess it’s a good chance to give something back in a little way, and I am really looking forward to being involved in the next few years.

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Originally published as St Kilda young gun Jade Gresham proud to represent his people in the jumper he helped create