Round 9 of the 2011 AFL season was today launched as Indigenous Round, a themed round to acknowledge and celebrate Indigenous players of our game.

The launch took place in Yarra Park, beside the MCG, where the traditional game of Marngrook was played.

Indigenous Round will feature a ‘warrior’ theme. Jason Mifsud said the warrior theme stems from the Aboriginal players’ belief they are ‘modern day warriors’; playing for their people, their communities, their future.

“In their community the players are considered leaders and role models not just on the field, but the way they express themselves and their culture with hard work in all aspects of their life,” Mr Mifsud explained.

“The players want to follow the example of warriors who have come before them not only former players but community leaders such as David Unaipon, Vincent Lingiari and Albert Namatjira.