Tayla Harris ‘The Kick’ immortalised in bronze statue

It was the kick that triggered a watershed sporting moment, which reverberated far beyond the AFLW. And now, the iconic Tayla Harris moment is set to be immortalised with a life-size statue.

Tayla Harris has been immortalised in bronze. Picture: AAP Image/Daniel Pockett

The Tayla Harris kick that triggered a watershed sporting moment during the AFLW season is being immortalised in bronze.

Standing 3.3m, the statue captures the famous photograph by Michael Willson of the AFL Women’s player that made headlines in March when the Carlton high flyer became the target of a trolling storm.

Harris not only called out the inappropriate social media behaviour but sparked a global conversation around respect for female athletes, inclusivity and the power of community.

Harris said she was humbled by the statue, which was commissioned by AFLW sponsor NAB.

“It is surreal to see it, although I don’t think I will fully understand or appreciate the significance of it for another 20 years,” she said.

Tayla Harris with her life-size statue. Picture: Alex Coppel

The stunning photo that started it all. Picture: Michael Willson

“For me at the time, I never wanted anyone to pity me, particularly because I felt so empowered and strong.”

Harris said she hopes that fans gain strength from the statue.

“I hope people pose with it and take photos and that it helps people feel confident and see that good things can come from being brave,” she said.

“It doesn’t matter if you’re a man or a woman, young or old — everyone has a right to do what they love.”

Created by NSW sculptor Terrance Plowright, the completed statue is expected to weigh a tonne and take 2000 hours to make, with a permanent site yet to be determined.

MORE NEWS

VOTE: WHO WILL SOAR TO NO. 1 IN BEST MARKS OF ALL TIME?

BUSH FOOTY BATTLERS GIVEN BOOT BY LEAGUE

CARLTON WAG HOSPITALISED WITH THE FLU

NAB’s chief customer experience officer, Rachel Slade said she hoped it empower men and women of all ages to stand up for what they believed in.

“Bronze statues typically commemorate the greatness of an individual. This statue symbolises the potential of a generation,” Ms Slade said.

“When the kids of today saw that photo of Tayla, and when they see this statue, they shouldn’t see gender. They should see strength, athleticism and possibility, and that has the power to change the future.”

The prototype is on show in Federation Square.