The Western Bulldogs and Carlton will take part in the second edition of the AFLW Pride Game this Sunday at VU Whitten Oval.
The match will recognise and support the LBGTIQ community by celebrating inclusiveness, gender diversity, and welcoming all people, no matter their sexual orientation.
The two teams launched the concept in Round 4 of the 2018 season, with 9000 fans witnessing the Dogs triumph by 73 points.
Both teams will wear rainbow-themed guernseys, and the 50-metre arc will be in rainbow colours, along with the goal umpire flags.
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“The Pride Game is a fantastic concept, and as players we’re incredibly humbled to have the opportunity to be part of it,” said Bulldogs co-captain Katie Brennan.
“We saw what an impact the game had last year in supporting the LGBTIQ community. It was a very special night.
“As players we’re very proud of the way the Western Bulldogs have led the way when it comes to gender diversity and inclusiveness. We can’t wait for Sunday afternoon.”
The Bulldogs’ Pride Game guernsey was designed by Natalie Gills and features a rainbow pattern which complements the Club’s traditional strip.
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“The rainbow beams of pride emerging out from the Bulldogs’ hoops represent the strength and solidarity of the Club and its dedication to diversity and inclusion,” she said.
“This guernsey highlights the platform that our AFLW players have to reach out and support every part of the community and, in particular, the LGBTIQ community.”
As they did last year, the two teams will run through a joint banner before the match in a show of unity.
Australia’s only LGBTIQ radio station, JOY FM, will broadcast the game.
A range of Pride Game merchandise is available for purchase from the Bulldog Shop, including the pride guernsey, can cooler, mug and scarf.
The VU Whitten Oval gates will open from 2.30pm EDT and there will plenty of entertainment for the while family, including a fan zone, food trucks, live music, giveaways and more.
The match kicks off at 4.05pm and will be broadcast live on Fox Footy.
