The Sydney Swans’ Indigenous players will celebrate their culture and heritage in this week’s AFL Indigenous Round.

Sydney has a proud history of Indigenous representation, with the Swans being the only club in the league with two Indigenous players who have played over 300 games, in Michael O’Loughlin (303) and Adam Goodes (305).

Goodes, who will unfortunately miss this year’s Indigenous Round with injury, said he believed the celebration is an important part of the AFL season.

“I think it’s a fantastic initiative by the AFL and the Players’ Association and the players to have a  Round that recognises the impact and contribution that all Aboriginal people have had on our game, whether it be on the playing surface or as a coach or in a mentor role,” he said.

“For any of those volunteers out there that have made a contribution, this is a round to celebrate our culture, our heritage and that we’re pretty much still here.”

Lewis Jetta, who will toss the coin for the Swans ahead of Saturday’s game against Melbourne, agreed that Indigenous Round is a great initiative from the AFL.

“It means a lot and it just shows all the indigenous boys playing in the AFL and shows where they come from and what playing AFL means to them,” Jetta said.

“I’m actually pretty nervous about (tossing the coin) but I’ve spoken to Macca (Swans co-captain Jarrad McVeigh) and I’ve got a plan worked out”

Tony Armstrong said he hopes this weekend’s celebrations will raise awareness of Indigenous issues within communities’ nation-wide.

“It’s a great round and a great celebration of the oldest culture in the world and it’s going to be good to see all the boys get out there and show their wares,” he said.

“Hopefully it can raise a lot of awareness for other issues going on in Indigenous communities.”