Pacific FC unveiled its alternative jersey, the Resilience Kit, before the 2024 Canadian Premier League on March 21.
The new 2024 kit design features salmon in the club’s purple and teal colours on a white background. It was designed by Coast Salish Artist Maynard Johnny Sr.
“This jersey will create awareness and raise questions among Canadians about how we can make a positive change in the future and inspire our youth,” said Johnny in a press release.
Salmon represents resilience and preservation for Indigenous people in Canada as they continue their journey toward truth and reconciliation.
Proceeds from the sale of the alternative jersey will go toward the Indian Residential School Survivors Society and Indigenous-based organization Hope and Health.
“The jersey proceeds will assist Hope and Health in being responsive to emerging critical needs identified across Vancouver Island-based Indigenous communities,” said Deana Gill-Georgica, the organization’s CEO.
According to the press release, Pacific FC was Canada’s first professional sports team to compete in an Indigenous-designed jersey in 2022.
“Our mandate as a club is to empower young people to create their own thriving futures,” said Paul Beirne, managing director of Pacific FC. “This jersey represents our commitment to using our platform to work towards a better future for Indigenous youth in our community.”
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