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Universal Love Syd Jackson Recognised for Indigenous Contributions

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Forgive me, but I firmly believe this story is thread worthy of its own.



Before my time, but I have always believed Syd has been a much loved and underrated champion of our footy club.

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So wish i got to see Syd player. But so proud he was and a still is, a legend of our footy club and the game.
 
Remember seeing him play, and he was marvellous to watch. He was the first indigenous player I remember seeing In a time of great heroes and villains, he was dynamic, extremely skill full, and fair. No one from any team would have a bad word to say about Syd. Deserves all the accolades he receives, and those drop kicks were just magic!
 

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He was never underrated by anyone back then, came over with a big reputation and he lived up to it.
I think the underrating is since he played by people who didn't get to see him. When you talk about indigenous players, he's not really at the top of the list of names brought up.....
 
I think the underrating is since he played by people who didn't get to see him. When you talk about indigenous players, he's not really at the top of the list of names brought up.....
He came over after Polly Farmer had retired and in his first year was the only indigenous player in the league, Barry Cable came a year after, Syd was quick, could take a high mark and was tough as nails as one Pies fullback found out.
 
I was slightly horrified when Yokayi Football on the AFL website earlier this year had a vote going for greatest indigenous footballer, and they left Syd Jackson off the list. A Sandover medal and two VFL premierships should give you the right to be involved in that conversation.

anyway, it’s great the AFL are recognising him. An outstanding life and career!
 
Another (and better) article on Syd Jackson


Discusses his football journey, but also his painful upbringing.

Part of the stolen generation, he didn't know when and where he was born. He grew up on a mission, technically didn't exist according to state records, only met his parents twice and faced a barrage of racism through his life.

I don't know how he made it out the other side, let alone as a champion footballer. A true legend, on and off the field.
 

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I didn’t realise this was happening until today.

I’m rapt that Syd has been given this honour. He was a trailblazer. His talent could certainly light up a footy ground.

I was a bit teary watching those highlights (tears of joy?). Syd had it all but what about those drop kick goals. Do you know how much skill was required? And he made it look easy.

Syd was a great footballer and a champion for indigenous rights. It’s fitting that he should be given this honour.
 

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I remember getting his autograph one day after the game where the players come out at Princes Park when I was a wee lad
Probably around 1975 or 76
Was one of the nicer ones happy to interact with the fans


I got his autograph as well in the 70's one day after training.
 
Bought a huge Carlton history book at the club when we had a fund raising day at Princes Park in the early 2000's.
As other supporters flocked to Kernahan, Fev and other players I approached Syd who was on his own.
He signed his autograph next to a photo of him in the book that I had just bought.
Syd is a delightful person. Made my day.
 

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Universal Love Syd Jackson Recognised for Indigenous Contributions

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