The ARA First Nations Foundation enjoyed a successful 10-week program during the backend of 2023, and the experience was made all the more special with Nike gifting the entire program with free training gear.
The program aims to increase participation and involvement for First Nations People right across our game. It incorporates mental health and cultural education sessions with strategically planned technical and tactical training led by experienced staff.
It’s delivered in a culturally safe and inclusive environment, fostering a greater sense of belonging and connection to AFL and the broader Sydney Swans family.
Nike, who have been partners of the Sydney Swans since 2017 before becoming the Official Apparel and Footwear Partner of the Swans and the QBE Sydney Swans Academy in 2021, generously donated shoes, clothes, and uniform for every participant.
"Having such a well-known and recognised brand like Nike supporting the ARA First Nations Foundations program is so important in helping us to inspire our athletes," Jarred Hodges, Manager - First Nations Strategy & Player Development said.
"The holistic nature of the program focuses on supporting and strengthening our athlete’s sense of identity, mental health, connection to culture and athletic performance, demonstrating the power of sport.
The clothing and footwear that Nike provided not only makes our athletes look good and feel good, but it brings a level of pride that has enhanced their performance."
Nike are committed to expanded access to sport for all and working with their extended Nike family, which includes the Sydney Swans, to help remove barriers and keep athletes in sport at all levels.
“In partnership with the Sydney Swans, we are thankful to have been able to place a role in the success of this incredible ARA First Nations Foundation program," Ashley Reade, VP/GM Nike Pacific said.
"Connecting athletes to sport through inspiration and innovation is core to Nike, so to be able to bring this to like through product in the program is exciting. We look forward to watching the future success of this years’ cohort.”