Unique design to mark Royal occasion

East Perth Football Club will celebrate 100 years since its inaugural 1919 Premiership and help raise awareness for mental health by wearing a one-off heritage uniform during the club’s Round 12 clash against Perth on June 29.

The unique lighter blue jumper features a thinner black ‘V’ in place of the traditional black yoke that became part of the club’s uniform in the 1950s.

To raise awareness for mental health, the jumper also features the Beyond Blue logo and initials MD on the back in recognition of long-time East Perth member and volunteer Mark Detata, who tragically took his own life last year.

Tony Fairweather, a friend of Mark Detata (pictured below) and co-ordinator of the day, said Mark had combined his passion for history and football in undertaking a great deal of work leading up to the club’s centenary celebrations.

“Mark was very humble with a good heart. He struggled with depression and a sense of belonging for many years. The East Perth Football Club was an important part of Mark’s life and provided a feeling of community,” he said.

All match worn jumpers will be sold after the game with proceeds to be donated to Beyond Blue.

East Perth CEO Dean Turner said the Club was truly excited to be able to celebrate the ground-breaking first WAFL Premiership in 1919, while also raising awareness for mental health.

“The legacy these players left after their era of domination set our club up to be one of the powerhouses of WA football. To be able to celebrate their achievement, whilst being able to raise awareness for Beyond Blue is something the club is very pleased to be doing,” Mr Turner said.

“Our Club, like many others, is working to address good mental health with players, staff, members and supporters.”

Mental health experts are available 24/7 via the Beyond Blue Support Service 1300 22 4636 or for online chat at beyondblue.org.au/get-support

Royals history captured in commemorative book

To celebrate East Perth Football Club’s first premiership in 1919, the club is launching a commemorative book ‘1919 The Royal Domination Begins’ researched and compiled by club historian Pete Carter.

The book reflects on each match of the 1919 season as well as featuring player profiles, issues that affected the club during the season, controversies and details of the end of season excursions.