Valor FC honors indigenous culture, science and knowledge through the design of its alternate jersey.
The soccer club unveiled the jersey Thursday, saying the stripes, patterns and logos recognize the contributions of Manitoba's indigenous people.
The new design includes a sunflower in the center, a flower that has been cultivated by indigenous communities for thousands of years. The shirt's four corners are decorated with prairie crocus, which has long been prized by indigenous communities for its beauty, medicinal properties and ecological teachings.
“I can think of nothing more appropriate, more Indigenous, or more Manitoban than having a sunflower for Valor FC this season,” said Negan Sinclair, Valor FC's Director of Indigenous Inclusion.
Sinclair explained that this new design is Valor FC's way of taking a concrete step towards reconciliation.
He added that the shirt serves as a reminder of Indigenous culture, as well as the strength and beauty of the land.
“It has turned into everything I dreamed it could be,” he said.
“I was just part of the team, but I was part of the design of the jersey itself. It's just the most beautiful things I've ever seen.”
– With files from CTV's Devon McKendrick.
