Newsroom staff
5 November 2014: The University of Canberra Capitals will don navy and sky blue camouflage playing strips for this weekend's match at the AIS Arena, to raise funds and awareness for the charity organisation Solider On ahead of Remembrance Day.
UC Capitals captain Abby Bishop and player Stephanie Talbot modelled the one-off playing kit in front of the Australian War Memorial this week in an initiative driven by long-term UC Capitals sponsor and fan Richard Rolfe.
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UC Capitals players Abby Bishop and Stephanie Talbot show off their one-off kit for their clash against West Coast. Photo supplied. |
Director of the Australian War Memorial Dr Brendan Nelson welcomed the UC Capitals initiative to play in camouflage uniforms, not just for Soldier On but as a mark of respect for Remembrance Day, which will be commemorated on Tuesday 11 November.
"The Australian War Memorial is about recognising and commemorating the sacrifice and commitment of Australian service men and women over more than 100 years," Dr Nelson said.
"The University of Canberra Capitals are arguably Australia's most successful women's sporting franchise and, apart from raising awareness for Soldier On, the gesture also recognises the contribution of women in war."
CEO of Soldier On John Bale said the charity was extremely grateful for the support of the University of Canberra Capitals.
"Remembrance Day is such an important time, and we hope that more organisations will take this lead and honour the fallen by supporting the living. This event will be particularly exciting as we strive to connect our veterans with the community, and partnerships with sporting teams have proven to be one of the best ways to do so," Mr Bale said.
"Women's sports are particularly important, as female veterans often find it difficult to come forward to seek support. It's vital these men and women understand that it's okay to seek support and that the community is invested in their future."
UC Capitals captain Abby Bishop said the team was looking forward to playing in the new design while raising awareness for the charity Solider On, which provides support to injured Australian soldiers.
"The War Memorial is such a special place for all Australians, and to be here, helping to raise awareness for such a worthwhile charity is a real honour," Bishop said.
"I know the team is really looking forward to playing in this new kit and hopefully we can see lots of the kids and families who Solider On work with at the game this week."
The University of Canberra Capitals are the most successful WNBL team in the history of the competition and are Canberra's most successful team with seven championship titles.
The University of Canberra Capitals will play the West Coast Waves at the AIS Arena on Sunday 9 November from 1pm.
