Every year when Adelaide defender Chelsea Biddell pulls on the Crows’ Pride guernsey, she does so knowing that it is an important reminder that football is for everyone.
“Pulling on the Pride jumper every year is one of the highlights of the season, because it’s a visible moment of us all celebrating our differences as well as our similarities,” she said.
“Pride Round is such an important and valuable initiative to keep showing that the game is for everyone.”
The Crows will celebrate Pride Round over the next two rounds, starting with Round Nine’s clash against West Coast at Norwood Oval on Saturday, October 11.
Adelaide Co-Captain Sarah Allan said she was looking forward to celebrating inclusivity and diversity.
“Being an inaugural player, I have seen that from the start that the AFLW has been an amazing space for inclusivity and diversity,” she said.
“This Round embraces the fact that we create a safe environment for all, and that we can celebrate it.”
That’s a sentiment shared by Adelaide’s AFL captain Jordan Dawson, who said: “It’s important that our Club reflects the diversity of the communities in which we live, play and work.
“Our AFLW team is leading the way in showing how inclusion strengthens the game.”
Midfielder Anne Hatchard agreed, saying Pride Round was important in the way it gives everyone a safe space to be respected for who they are.
“This round gives people the confidence to have pride in themselves and respect all those around them,” Hatchard said.
Crows AFLW coach Matthew Clarke said Pride Round was another way in which football helped to make a positive impact more broadly.
“Pride Round is one of the great initiatives of the AFLW; a significant celebration of diversity and inclusion and another example of footy making society better.”
AFL coach Matthew Nicks agreed.
“Empowering people to be their true selves is a key pillar of our footy Club," Nicks said.
“We know that when people can be honest and open about who they are, they become the best versions of themselves."
Adelaide forward Eloise Jones said she couldn’t wait to celebrate Pride Round across the next two games.
“The AFLW has always done a beautiful job of providing a safe and welcoming space where everyone feels comfortable to be themselves,” Jones said.
“Pride Round is important in celebrating and continuing that tradition.”
Crows AFL forward Josh Rachele echoed the sentiment.
“We know deep down that when we feel secure and safe and we can be ourselves, we perform to the best of our ability – both in the men’s and women’s league," Rachele said.
“We’re all people and everyone deserves to feel safe, respected, and included."
AFL key forward Riley Thilthorpe said: “Footy is for everyone, and each year this Round continues to grow and create a safe space where people can belong and be themselves.
“The AFLW has shown great leadership in this area, and we’re committed to building on that so our Club is a place where everyone can fulfil their potential,” Thilthorpe said.
The Crows take on West Coast in their Pride Round match at Norwood Oval on Saturday, October 11, with gates opening at 11am.
Celebrations will include a pre-game Pride March lap of honour by the Rainbow Crows, line-dancing as well as a kids’ zone and post-match player signings.
Get tickets here.
