Fremantle players are promoting NAIDOC Week’s theme Because of her, we can by celebrating the invaluable contributions that Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women have made – and continue to make – in their life.
The fitting NAIDOC theme resonates with all of our Indigenous players who have a special woman that has helped them achieve their goal of playing AFL.
Midfielder Harley Bennell has publically spoken about the strong relationship he has with his mother Kayleen, who raised nine children on her own, with Harley being the third eldest.
“Growing up with nine kids at home as a single mum, it was a bit hard for herself but she’s accomplished that and my brothers, sisters and myself are very grateful,” Bennell said.
“She’s the most beautiful woman you’ll ever come across.
“She’s loving and caring. She’s done everything in her powers for me to get me to where I am today and if it wasn’t for her, I’m not too sure what I’d be doing.”
Kayleen held back tears when she spoke about the special bond she has with all her children and has credited her bond to the special elders in her life.
“I enjoyed it, just me and the kids,” she said.
“It’s a lovely journey, you get to hand down a lot of things that your parents give you to your children and of course from us and our culture.
“It’s been lovely.”
Throughout the week the club’s social channels will continue to promote other relationships our players have with the special women in their life.
As part of NAIDOC Week the team will be wearing the club’s Indigenous jumper during Wednesday’s Open Training session starting at 9am at Victor George Kailis Oval.
Purchase your Indigenous Round Home Guernsey for NAIDOC week.
Fans will also have the chance to sample Indigenous food like Emu, Kangaroo and Wild Boar Sausages at Open Training, as Daniel Motlop and James Moore’s company ‘Something Wild’ will be cooking a BBQ with open range game meats, based in Adelaide.
