FIFA 22 players are now able to live out their football dreams in an Indigenous jersey after EA Sports released the latest version of the popular video game.
The ‘Bandaar’ jersey, which means ‘grey kangaroo’ in Gamilaroi, is available in the game’s VOLTA FOOTBALL feature, allowing players to take to the streets away from the familiarity of large virtual stadiums.
“It means so much to have the opportunity to create a design for a game as big as FIFA,” Gamilaroi & Wiradjuri artist Sean Kinchela said.
“For them to love the idea of having an Indigenous jersey on the game to represent our people and culture was mind-blowing.”
The 28-year-old was approached earlier this year by the lead singer of indie/pop band Pirra Jess Beck, who told him EA was searching for a designer.
When he was asked to design something Australian, he pitched a First Nations idea.
Mr Kinchela said his work was inspired by the concept of unity.
28-year-old Gamilaroi/Wiradjuri Sean Kinchela designed the 'Bandaar' jersey for the new FIFA 22 video game.
“The boomerangs represent community and pride, with the community circles and kangaroo tracks circling each other showing we live around each other.”
The red and yellow dots, Mr Kinchela said, are symbolic of the Aboriginal flag.
“To me, it reflects on all nations. I wanted to include all of our people instead of focusing on one clan group.”
“This is a story every clan group can relate to, as kangaroos were a huge dietary supplement for our people.”
At least 10 million players have competed in 460 million matches since FIFA 22 launched on 1 October.
