I love collecting sports jerseys, particularly those of my favourite teams.
When it comes to picking a soccer jersey, I put a lot of thought into it.
First, I’ll decide which jersey I want. Then I’ll scan the team roster and consider the players’ positions.
Finally, I’ll decide whose name I want on the back. Sometimes it’s a current star, other times a past legend, and occasionally, I’ll go with my own surname.
As a fan, it’s always interesting to see which players have inspired other supporters enough to display their name on a jersey.
However, when it comes to purchasing NRL jerseys, I’ve noticed my process is a lot more straightforward—I just buy my team’s jersey.
Lately, there’s been plenty of discussion in the NRL about introducing names on the back of jerseys, sparked by Bulldogs chief executive Aaron Warburton’s proposal to implement it as early as next year.
Here’s my take.
A name is a central part of a person’s identity, and this truth is echoed throughout Scripture.
God attaches to names great power and significance.
Abram was renamed Abraham, meaning “Father of a multitude” or “Father of nations.” Simon became Peter, meaning “Rock.” Even in the Gospel of Luke, the Angel Gabriel greets Mary not merely with a description, but with the name “Full of Grace,” highlighting the sacred identity of Our Lady in God’s plan.
Now, I’m not suggesting players’ surnames hold the same divine significance as biblical names, but the simple act of placing a name on a jersey can symbolise something deeper.
It reflects a person’s unique identity as someone created in the image and likeness of God.
It acknowledges their calling to use their God-given talents—not just to play Rugby League but to inspire and serve others.
In a way, surnames on jerseys help highlight what I always find crucial to stress; that players are more than just athletes—they’re people with unique stories, families, and backgrounds.
While numbers serve their purpose, adding a name brings a more personal touch.
It acknowledges the player’s humanity and identity, reminding us that they’re not just figures on a field, but individuals with a personal history and connection to those they represent.
The name on the back is a subtle but important reminder of who they are off the field, as well as on it.
For a player, representing their club and their family is an incredible privilege.
However, while that privilege is significant, it’s equally important that they take note of what former Arsenal defender Tony Adams once said: “Play for the name on the front of the shirt, and they’ll remember the name on the back.”
It’s a powerful reminder that the players aren’t competing as individuals—they’re part of a team and should be playing for the club and the teammates beside them first.
For me, surnames on jerseys isn’t about promoting individualism in a team sport.
Instead, it’s a celebration of the person behind the plays—a reminder of their roots, their hard work, and the unique story they bring to the team.
And when it’s done with humility—playing for the name on the front while honouring the one on the back—it’s a tradition that could enrich the NRL for both players and fans alike.
