PROUD MOMENT FOR GRAFTON PLAYER AS REDMEN EMBRACE MULTICULTURAL ROUND
WHEN Grafton Redmen women’s player Sidneigh Skinner runs out on the field this Saturday against the Kempsey Cannonballs, she is not only representing the Grafton Rugby Club, but also her people and her culture.
A proud Gumbaynggirr woman, Skinner can’t wait to represent and celebrate her indigenous heritage as part of the Club’s inaugural Multicultural Round.
“I think it’s the first time the Redmen club has celebrated a multicultural day and I’m pretty stoked,” Skinner said during the week.
“As a very proud Gumbaynggirr woman from the Clarence Valley I was super excited when Yuri (Yuri Fuller) told me about the idea, and I think it’s fantastic we get to share and witness some really great talent from the indigenous and Fijian players.”
And there’s much more to Sidneigh than just the footballer.
She has a deep sense of pride, and truly embraces her rich cultural heritage.
Multicultural Day’s central message is to give everyone involved in the game an opportunity to not only respect but learn about the cultures of others.
“Saturday is all about showcasing and understanding different cultures, it is also about encouraging people to initiate those conversations of uncertainty and learn more about our language and history,” Skinner said.
“I know a lot of the girls I play with feel a lot more comfortable when I’m open and honest about my heritage and I think it welcomes them to learn more as well.
“Saturday is not all about the entertainment and the footy, it’s about having those tough conversations and coming together.”
For the Redmen front-rower, the past traditions of her people are a constant guiding light.
“I’m just grateful to learn about the stories my grandfather experienced when he was growing up in Ulmarra and Corindi,” Skinner said.
“He was a very proud Gumbaynggirr man who was initiated and knew the language.
“That’s something I haven’t experienced with modern society, but it is something I like to look back on and learn more about the culture and the past.”
Both the men’s and women’s sides will unveil a new playing strip to celebrate the day.
“Maddy Ellem and Malakai designed the jersey and Maddy explained to me about the different symbols,” Skinner said.
“She told me the story about the Dirrangun and how the Clarence River and its islands were created.
“I thought that was perfect because it joins the whole Clarence together and one community.”
Nico
