Sunday April 10, 2022 | LANGFORD, BC
by Mary P Brooke | Island Social Trends
Pacific FC today unveiled their 2022 alternate Macron jersey at their opening match at Starlight Stadium in Langford.
The bold black and white print design by Coast Salish artist Maynard Johnny Jr. is the first Indigenous designed professional soccer jersey in Canada. The local artist, whose traditional name is Thii Hayqwtun (big or huge fire), depicted a salmon and a child’s face on the jersey.
“I’ve created this design with the idea of truth and reconciliation with Pacific FC to raise awareness of what needs to be done in Canada,” said Maynard Johnny Jr. “Having a sports team like Pacific FC wear something that reflects Indigenous people’s culture and history will raise questions and awareness.”
Salmon resilience:
The design of the jersey is filled with meaning from Johnny Jr.’s own life and that of his peoples. The salmon, although not the most ferocious of animals, represents rejuvenation and resilience of the Indigenous people. The child’s face featured within the centre symbolizes the future and moving forward to a more positive life ahead.
Current events influenced Johnny Jr. when he created the new kit, he stated that he felt since 2020, Indigenous people have been able to speak their voice and he is now able to do what he is doing now thanks to the survival and resilience of his grandparents and great grandparents.
Wearing with pride:
Pacific FC is honoured to don the first Indigenous designed jersey in professional soccer history in Canada and hopes to use their platform to support and create more awareness of Indigenous culture throughout the country. It is a reminder that more is still needed to be done for truth and reconciliation.
“This jersey is something that our players and fans can wear with pride, it reflects what we are trying to do as an organization towards truth and reconciliation on Vancouver Island and beyond,” said Stephanie Wood, Director of Marketing, Pacific FC.
“We are looking forward to seeing this truly unique kit shining light on what still needs to be done.”
Donations to charity:
In a collaboration with local First Nations, $20 from each jersey sale will be donated to the artist’s charity of choice, and $5000 worth of the artist’s time will benefit Hope and Health’s Youth Champion Program.
The new jersey retails for $119 and comes in sizes youth – 4XL.
Stay tuned to pacificfc.ca and follow the club on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook for the latest news.
No masks required at games in 2022 season:
COVID is still something to deal with (the pandemic continues – now in a sixth wave), but as of April 8, 2022 the BC Vaccine Card is no longer required for access to public venues.
===== RELATED:
New head coach James Merriman gears up for 2022 season (April 10, 2022)