When Boston Jackson arrived at the Bull Sharks football club she was a shy young teenager reluctant to push herself, now she is in the leadership group and wants everyone to feel welcome.
That is why the captain of the ladder leading reserve side is so proud to be wearing Bond University’s multi-coloured guernsey to celebrate AFL Queensland’s third annual Pride Round.
“Pride Round is more than just rainbows and flags it is about changing our sporting culture to make the LGBTQIA+ community feel accepted, supported and safe,” said Jackson.
“It is awesome to show the community that no matter who you are, how you identify, what your sexuality is, Bond has a spot for you."
Jackson, 20, said while she wouldn’t turn down a call-up to seniors, right now she is loving her new mentor role in reserves.
“It is so great that the girls look up to me. Because I’m not the best player and I don’t have the best footy skills, but it is more of a people person position.
“The coaches put enormous effort into developing you as a person as well as your footy skills,” said Jackson.
The Bull Sharks are coming off a 99-point mauling of the Aspley Hornets, but Jackson is warning her teammates not to be complacent against fourth placed Maroochydore in the last round of the regular season.
“I believe this year is the first year where any team could take out the win no matter where you are on the table, there are no easy games.
“I feel like yes, we have that solid win from last weekend, but we really need to give it all we’ve got for the last game. It’s going to be a tough game,” said Jackson.
Bond play at Leyshon Park in Brisbane on Saturday afternoon.