Fremantle Dockers have unveiled their 2026 Indigenous jumper, a design inspired by the journey of club great Stephen Hill. The former winger collaborated with his cousin, local artist Mariah Yarran, to chart his family history and path into football.
Design honours family roots
“It’s a story about my Nan and Pop and their journey, and also represented on here is our family and extended family,” Hill said. “I’m honoured to be able to put the design on the jumper that has been a big part of my life.”
Hill admitted there was pressure to deliver a design that lived up to past efforts. “There was a bit of pressure to make sure it came up well, having seen past designs, but it’s come up well. It was a great moment to be able to tell [Mariah] cause they’ve all been massive supporters of the club.”
Anchor symbolises family strength
Yarran said she drew inspiration from Hill’s debut jumper from the 2009 Purple Haze game. “My favourite part of the jumper would probably be the anchor. It’s the shirt that Stephen debuted in, so purple with the white anchor, and that’s where it also includes the symbols for Nan (Violet, nee Jones) and Pop (Derek)… and links that Nan and Pop were the anchors of the family.”
She recalled how Hill’s grandparents were devoted fans. “As soon as Stephen joined Fremantle, Nan and Pop were just their number one fans, every single time Freo was on, they’d say, ‘Get out, you kids, go away. We’re watching Stephen on TV.’”
Debut memory cherished
Hill described his debut as his No.1 career moment. “A debut game is something you always remember, especially running out in front of the Freo home crowd as well. That was a very special moment.”
Yarran explained the jumper’s details: Nan and Pop sit on either side of the anchor, with symbols for family and children below, and kangaroo tracks on the back. “On Nan’s side, there are symbols for food and gathering. Pop was the hunter, so he has the hunting on his side. There’s a small symbol for family, and symbols for kangaroo tracks, because kangaroos symbolise moving forward and not looking back, along with more symbols for family, travelling and happiness.”
The top of the jumper features the native hibiscus flower, representing the stolen generation, a consistent element in Fremantle’s Indigenous designs.
Excitement for game day
Hill said he can’t wait to see players wear the jumper. “There’s always been a big number of indigenous players at the club and it feels like family and it’s always special to get to the AFL and see my brother get there, and Bobby is amazing. I just hope everyone can celebrate how special our culture is and the talent that is displayed with the players and enjoy the special occasion.”
