In a spectacular unveiling ahead of the Paris 2024 Olympics, the Australian Olympic Team revealed their distinctive Opening Ceremony uniforms. Nine esteemed athletes showcased these eye-catching outfits, designed by Sportscraft with footwear by Volley, offering a tantalising glimpse of the attire that will grace the global stage come July.
Continuing its impressive legacy, Sportscraft is outfitting the Australian team for the tenth consecutive Games. This enduring partnership, which began in Atlanta in 1996, is a testament to Sportscraft’s unwavering support for Aussie athletes. Teaming up with Volley, the brand promises a fusion of style and functionality, ensuring athletes look impeccable and feel comfortable as they represent their nation on the world’s most prestigious sporting platform.
The heart of the uniform lies in its fusion of modernity with classic Australian aesthetics. The signature green and gold hues are elevated with contemporary trim details, embodying the essence of Parisian fashion while paying homage to Australia’s rich sporting heritage.
At the forefront of the ensemble is the Opening Ceremony blazer, a symbolic piece adorned with the Australian Olympians’ Oath and the names of all 301 Australian Summer Olympic champions, encapsulating the spirit of unity and achievement. For women, options include a green double-breasted linen blazer paired with sport-inspired tees or tanks alongside a choice between chino shorts or pleated skirts. Men will sport a single-breasted linen blazer over sporty tees, complemented by stretch chino shorts.
Adding a profound touch of cultural significance, Indigenous artworks ‘Walking Together’ by Olympic boxer Paul Fleming and ‘Ngalmun Danalaig (Our Way of Life)‘ by Torres Strait Island artist David Bosun are prominently featured on the uniforms’ accessories. These artworks symbolise the diversity and resilience of the Australian Olympic Team, serving as a powerful reminder of the team’s rich cultural heritage.
Volley’s iconic footwear, the revamped Volley Deuce, incorporates premium materials and subtle Olympic motifs, embodying the pride and legacy of Australian athletes. The insoles, featuring artwork by Paul Fleming, serve as a reminder of the journey of unity and solidarity that every Australian Olympian embarks upon.
The meticulous design process, which lasted over two years and involved close collaboration with athletes and the Australian Olympic Committee (AOC), prioritised functionality and comfort. Soft, breathable fabrics, including Australian-grown cotton, ensure flexibility and movement across various sporting disciplines.
Chef de Mission of the Australian Olympic Team for Paris 2024, Anna Meares, expressed her excitement over the uniforms, emphasising their significance in uniting athletes across different sports and backgrounds. Reflecting on her experiences as a four-time Olympian, Meares highlighted the enduring pride and sense of belonging evoked by the Team uniform.
The launch also marked the debut of Sportscraft’s Olympic campaign, ‘SUPPORTSCRAFT,’ a crucial initiative aimed at rallying support for Australian athletes through various initiatives leading up to the Games. Elisha Hopkinson, APG&CO CEO, reiterated Sportscraft’s longstanding commitment to fostering the Australian sporting spirit and the importance of the audience’s support.
David Thomas, Brand Collective CEO, echoed the sentiment, emphasising Volley’s role in capturing the essence of the Games through footwear that seamlessly blends nostalgia with contemporary style.
For athletes like Olympic champion Tom Green and Rio Olympian Michelle Heyman, the unveiling of the uniforms brought a tangible sense of anticipation and pride, underscoring the immense honour and excitement of representing Australia on the Olympic stage once more.
“To wear this uniform in Paris with my girls would be a dream come true,” Heyman said.
“The Australian Olympic Team is so special. I love wearing my Rio Olympic jacket when I talk to schools or do events. I’m so proud to wear it and show that I’m an Australian Olympian.
“Not a lot of people get to wear these jackets, every time I put it on it makes me feel like I’m part of that special team who have achieved something remarkable.”
As the countdown to Paris 2024 continues, the Australian Olympic Team stands united and poised to showcase its athletic prowess. It embodies the spirit and unity of a nation; all encapsulated in the meticulously crafted Opening Ceremony uniforms designed to leave an indelible mark on the world stage.
