Sydney FC has proudly launched the club’s first-ever ‘Unity Kit,’ a bold and symbolic jersey that celebrates the rich diversity of the city and reinforces the Sky Blues’ commitment to inclusivity in football.
The vibrant new kit will be worn during the A-Leagues’ Pride Celebration on the weekend of March 15th and 16th, serving as a powerful statement of unity, equality and acceptance.
Inspired by Sydney’s cosmopolitan identity, the design reflects difference in all its forms and embodies the welcoming atmosphere of Sydney FC matches, ensuring all communities feel represented and embraced.
Sydney FC Chief Executive Officer Mark Aubrey expressed his pride in unveiling the landmark strip.
“The Unity Kit is a reflection of our great city and celebrates its diversity,” he said.
“Our mantra is We Are Sydney and wearing it during the Pride Celebration underlines our commitment to bringing together all of Sydney’s communities, including LGBTQI+ people, at our games.
“As a club, we firmly believe that football is for everyone, and our matches should be a welcoming place, where people from all backgrounds, faiths, and beliefs feel at home.
“Our Unity Kit opens the door to an ongoing, multi-year approach to inclusivity.
“In the years ahead, we hope to expand this concept further, incorporating more elements that recognize and celebrate the diverse communities that make up our multi-cultural city.”
Sydney FC Men’s Captain Rhyan Grant echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the importance of inclusivity within football.
“Sydney FC is a club for everyone, and the Unity Kit is a fantastic way to highlight our inclusivity,” he said.
“We want to see as many people as possible, from all walks of life, at our next home game, wearing the kit and standing together in celebration of diversity.”
Sydney FC’s Women’s Captain Natalie Tobin expressed enthusiasm for wearing the Pride-inspired kit.
“Our Women’s team has a long history of support from people from diverse backgrounds, particularly those people from the rainbow community.
“We are excited to wear this beautiful kit and give our support back to those who have regularly supported us over many years.”
Professional Footballers Australia (PFA) Chief Executive Officer Beau Busch also praised the initiative, reaffirming the importance of fostering an inclusive footballing environment.
“It’s encouraging to see Sydney FC take meaningful steps to celebrate diversity and inclusion in football,” he said.
“A playing kit is a strong visual representation of the club’s commitment to ensuring that football is a space where everyone feels welcome, and the PFA is proud to support initiatives that champion inclusivity across the game.”
As part of this commitment, Sydney FC recently welcomed Pride Cup Chief Executive Officer Hayley Conway to its Sky Park training facility.
In partnership with the PFA, Conway provided educational sessions for both the Men’s and Women’s squads ahead of the Pride Celebration, offering insights and answering questions to further the players’ understanding of inclusivity in sport.
“The Unity Kit demonstrates Sydney FC’s support for a community that has traditionally been pushed to the sidelines.
“Pride Cup inclusion education is a chance for players and staff to understand the challenges faced by LGBTIQ+ communities in football, and how they can work together to create an inclusive club environment, not just for players, but also for fans, regardless of faith, ethnicity, sexual orientation, or gender.
“Sydney FC’s pride games provide the perfect end to Mardi Gras season.”
Sydney FC’s Unity Kit will be available for purchase from Tuesday, February 25th, exclusively at https://shop.sydneyfc.com/
Members and fans are encouraged to show their support by wearing the kit to the upcoming Pride Celebration matches and join the Sky Blues in championing a game that welcomes all.
The Sky Blues will also be taking part in a number of other initiatives on gameday to support the Pride Celebration.
