Coolaroo pays special tribute to Indigenous community with new jersey during Sir Douglas Nicholls Indigenous Round

FITTING TRIBUTE: Coolaroo Football Club has a special reason to honour Sir Douglas Nicholls Indigenous Round. Find out what inspired the club to host a massive day of celebration and respect.

Proudly wearing Coolaroo's special Indigenous jersey are (from left) Milo Grice (Palawa Country), Phil Dreise (Kamilaroi and Euahlayi Country) and Sienna Grice Junior Player (Palawa Country).

The reason behind Coolaroo Football Club’s Sir Douglas Nicholls Indigenous Round tribute is simple, but powerful.

The AFLQ Darling Downs team’s top-of-the-table clash with University will be marked by a smoking ceremony, Indigenous dancers and didgeridoo players and a new specially0designed club jersey.

Coolaroo president Miels Grice said the club are committed to honouring Indigenous people as well educating and inspiring the greater community.

“It’s a proud time, a proud fortnight for everyone involved in the game,” Grice said.

“As a club it is important we acknowledge and pay our respects to Indigenous people past, present and future.

“This is a great opportunity to start important conversations, help to educate and inspire people.”

Championed by club legend Phil Dreise, a proud Kamilaroi and Euahlayi Country man, Coolaroo decided to go big this year after ‘missing out’ on a home game in 2024.

The day however isn’t just about football.

“Phil is an absolute legend, one of the greatest footballers in the history of the game locally,” Grice said.

“He’s championed our Indigenous round efforts for a few years now and we’re just following his lead.

“If you look at the game at any level, Indigenous players like Phil are some of the greatest to play the game.

“It’s not just about footy though.

“It’s important we acknowledge the history and the work being done on and off the field.

“It’s great to see people kicking goals and inspiring others outside of footy as well.”

First bounce at Rockville Oval will take place at 10am on Saturday.