By Peter Douglas
THE Pride Cup concept is another step closer towards a national platform on the AFL stage.
The St Kilda Football Club has officially requested to the AFL to play the Sydney Swans in a pride-themed clash during next year’s home and away fixture.
The club has requested a game at Etihad Stadium during a prime-time slot, such as a Saturday night, in order to reach wider audiences.
The Saints and the Yarra Glen Football Club have been working in partnership to further the concept, which the Thunder has successfully hosted at grassroots level over the past two years.
The concept first emerged last year through Yarra Glen coach, Dean de Munk, and assistant coach, Sam Hills, after team member Jason Ball came out as a gay footballer in 2012.
Ball told the ‘Mail’ it was exciting times for those involved.
“I’m confident it will happen in the AFL, St Kilda is the right club to take this forward,” he said.
“St Kilda has been leaders in this space from the outset, we’ve been happy to have their support.
“The club participated in the Pride March this year and their player Sam Gilbert has spoken publicly about marriage equality.”
The request comes after the Swans and Saints this year trialled the concept in a preseason clash at Drummoyne Oval, Sydney.
The game featured rainbow 50m arcs, goal post pads and umpires’ flags.
Ball believes the concept has much to offer a national audience.
“It’s not tokenism, it’s about encouraging meaningful engagement,” he said.
“I’m proud of the work of the Yarra Glen Football Club.”
Unfortunately for Ball, it’s unlikely he will play in the Thunder’s pride clash next year, after rupturing an ACL while playing in June this year.
Ball believes he will play again, but is intent on committing to rehabilitation.
