The New South Wales Rugby League will celebrate First Nations Round this weekend with a specially-designed, indigenous-themed jersey that will be worn by match officials in all NSWRL competitions.

The First Nations Round coincides with NAIDOC Week (7-14 July), recognising the history, culture and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.

“The NSWRL has always had a strong connection to First Nations people and they make an enormous contribution to our game every season,” NSWRL Chief Executive David Trodden said.

“There are currently more than 28,000 First Nations people involved with rugby league in NSW as players, coaches, trainers, referees or volunteers.

“First Nations players have provided plenty of highlights for fans across all formats of the game, from grassroots to the elite level, and I am sure that will continue into the future.

“I encourage all rugby league stakeholders to embrace First Nations Round this week and pay your respects.”

The jersey was designed by NSWRL Community Football Referees Development Officer and former NRL referee Gavin Badger, based on the artwork of First Nations artist Daren Dunn.

The jersey will be worn by officials in  The Knock-On Effect NSW Cup, Harvey Norman NSW Women’s Premiership, Jersey Flegg Cup, Leagues Clubs Australia Ron Massey Cup and Sydney Shield.

Dunn has also painted two pairs of football boots that are on display at the NSWRL Centre of Excellence to commemorate First Nations Round.