When Carlton great Syd Jackson returned to Princes Park this week he said he felt like he was “coming home”.
The two-time premiership player was invited to Carlton on Tuesday morning to address coaches, players and staff ahead of the AFL’s Indigenous Round, which kicks off on Friday night when the Blues take on Sydney at the SCG.
Jackson, who was recruited to the Blues from East Perth, played 136 games for Carlton between 1969 and 1976. He made his debut in Round 1, 1969 against St Kilda and it wasn’t long until his silky skills, lightning pace and hard edge saw him become a Carlton fan favourite.
Staff and players sat captivated as Jackson told his personal story about growing up as an Aboriginal boy in the 1940s – fittingly his talk coincided with National Sorry Day. He spoke of the stolen generation, tolerance and respect, and emphasised the importance of acknowledging and respecting all players from all cultures.
“I told the players it’s very important to recognise, not just Aboriginal players, but all players that are from different backgrounds. It’s all of us in it together and that’s the message today,” he said.
Chris Yarran, one of four Indigenous players at Carlton, said it was an honour to have Jackson return to Ikon Park and tell his story.
“To have a revered player like Syd come into the club at such a tough time meant a lot. It was great to hear from him and hear his powerful story,” Yarran said.
Syd Jackson spends some time with Carlton's four Indigenous players Chris Yarran, Andrew Walker, Clem Smith and Liam Jones. (Photo: Carlton Football Club)
Jackson was joined at Carlton by Indigenous designer Clive Atkinson, who is also Andrew Walker’s uncle. Atkinson designed Carlton’s 2015 Indigenous Guernsey and explained the meaning behind the design, which depicts three of the oldest Aboriginal symbols: the rainbow serpent, the long-necked turtle and a trio of men.
Meanwhile Stan Yarramunua, a well-known Aboriginal artist, explained the meaning behind a painting that will be given to the Swans before the game on Friday night. Yarramunua created an artwork that depicts the SCG, coaches, players and fans watching the match under the Milky Way.
The visit from Jackson and Indigenous elders came amid a tough week at Carlton. But Jackson, a Bluebagger through and through, said he is confident that Carlton will bounce back.
“I’m a Blues man – I have been since the day I stepped out here and played my first game,” he said.
“I know we’re going to get back to where we should be. Right now I’m just glad to be back on the ground and around the club.”
