St Kilda Hall of Fame member Nicky Winmar helped launch the AFL’s 2013 Indigenous Round on Monday at Victoria Park, celebrating the theme ‘identity’.

Round 9 is inspired by the 20 year anniversary of Nicky Winmar’s extraordinary stance at Victoria Park where he lifted his jumper in an iconic stance against against racism.

AFL Head of Diversity Jason Mifsud said Nicky’s moment has played an integral part in the identity of our game.

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“Raising his guernsey, Nicky created an unforgettable symbol of identity - purpose and pride in his Aboriginality.  

“This year we are celebrating the theme identity which recognises Indigenous cultures, customs and traditions, across the 320 nations and 500 language groups.

“Indigenous Round is a celebration of our country's Indigenous players and their contribution which has shaped Australia's Game - a game that unites us all,players and fans, standing as one.”

“A number of events will be happening across Australia this week to recognise the Round, with the flagship event being the ‘Dreamtime at G’ match in Melbourne between Richmond and Essendon.

“This week is also an opportunity for the players to share their stories about their own country and their Indigenous identity.”

In 2013 there are 67 Indigenous players, including St Kilda small forward Terry Milera.

All Indigenous Round matches will feature the Indigenous Round Sherrin. Designed by artist Marcus Lee, the art on the Sherrin symbolises the celebration of all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander players who have successfully elevated their talent to AFL level.

The circular rings and dots cluster showcases the continuous cycle of prominent and emerging players - now regarded as modern day warriors.

Synthetic replicas of the Indigenous Round Sherrin are available at selected Rebel Sport and Target stores nationally and Sherrin will donate 10 per cent of sales to support the employment of Indigenous trainees via AFL SportsReady.

All nine Indigenous Round matches will feature a Welcome to Country ceremony; a symbolic ceremony where the traditional custodians of the land welcome members of the wider community.

For the third year in a row, the centre circle at all AFL matches will be painted in the red, black and yellow colours of the Aboriginal flag.