The Fremantle Dockers, also known as Walyalup, have unveiled a remarkable new Indigenous jumper for their AFLW team, featuring a design inspired by former player Tiah Toth’s journey. This unique piece of artwork, created by her sister Breeanna Haynes, honors Toth’s career and contributions, while highlighting the struggles and triumphs she faced during her time in the AFLW. Worn for the final two games of the season, the jumper represents a key moment as Fremantle pushes to secure a spot in the finals.
Toth, who played 24 games for the Dockers before her retirement in 2022, is at the heart of the jumper’s design. Despite enduring multiple injuries throughout her career, Toth remained resilient, even managing to be drafted again after being cut from the team. Reflecting on her journey, Toth expressed pride in the way her story has been captured through this special artwork. “The design reflects not just my time at the club, but the perseverance it took to come back after injury and being drafted again,” she said.
The jumper itself carries deep personal significance. It features seven circles representing the different clubs Toth played for, while five smaller circles symbolize the major injuries she suffered, including a severe shoulder injury early in her AFLW career. Additionally, the inclusion of the willie wagtail pays tribute to the family’s totem and their late relative, Nanny Dixon, who recently passed away at the age of 98.
Breeanna Haynes, who worked closely with her sister to craft the design, shared her gratitude for being part of the process. “It’s an honor to translate Tiah’s journey into art. Every detail holds meaning, and I’ve been with her through every step of it,” Haynes remarked. Their collaboration has resulted in a powerful tribute, not only to Toth’s football career but also to their family’s heritage and connection to the land.
Fremantle players will proudly wear the jumper in their final two regular-season matches. With a single win against either the Giants or the Bulldogs, the Dockers are guaranteed a spot in the finals. Additionally, victories in both games could propel them into the top four, depending on the outcomes of matches played by Adelaide and Brisbane.