Greater Western Sydney’s Curtly Hampton was one month old when Nicky Winmar made his historic stand against racism.
But thanks to uncle Gilbert McAdam, who was playing alongside Winmar at Victoria Park, its significance was never lost on him.
“It’s one of the most historic moments in AFL,” said Hampton, who has earned a recall for his side’s home clash with West Coast on Saturday.
Responding to racist abuse from Collingwood fans, Winmar raised his St Kilda jumper and proudly pointed to his chest.
The iconic act has been highlighted, re-enacted and retold ahead of the AFL’s indigenous round.
“That’s one of the moments I remember as a kid,” Hampton said.
“Every time I used to see uncle Gilbert when I was young he used to tell me about the story, playing in that game.
“So I know a lot about it and I’ve heard the story since I was little.”
Sydney veteran Adam Goodes conceded earlier this week the moment failed to impact him as a youngster.
“At the time it didn’t really mean much to me to be honest,” Goodes told the Swans website.
“I was 13 and playing soccer in Adelaide and … once I started playing footy and started to establish myself in the game, I realised, looking back on history that certain things had made a difference.
“Not just in football but for our people as well.
“It was just one of those statements that made me think: `you know what? I should really be proud about my heritage, my culture and who I am.'”
AAP rf/wf/