The Carlton Football Club is proud to launch its inaugural Syd Jackson Scholarship – honouring one of Carlton’s great Indigenous players.
 
The scholarship aims to recognise the dual premiership player’s commitment to excellence both on and off the field.
 
Jackson, who was recruited to the Blues from East Perth, played 136 games for Carlton between 1969 and 1976. He made his debut in Round 1, 1969 against  St Kilda and it wasn’t long until his silky skills, lightning pace and hard edge saw him become a Carlton fan favourite.
 
Since retiring Syd has worked tirelessly to create more opportunities for Indigenous Australians – particularly young Australians.
 
Through his role as an ambassador for Outback Academy Australia’s ‘Red Dust Heelers’ and ‘RESPECT’ programs, Syd is helping to accelerate economic freedom, as well as employment and wellbeing, for Indigenous Australians.
 
Jackson, who played a vital part in planning and delivering Carlton’s first-ever Reconciliation Action Plan, says this scholarship is a dream come true.
 
“I am very proud to be working with the Carlton Football Club and the Outback Academy on this initiative as part of Carlton’s Reconciliation Action Plan,” he said.
 
The recipient of the scholarship will benefit from mentoring sessions with Syd Jackson and Outback Academy mentors. They will also take part in a nationally recognised training course and receive qualifications on completion.
 
They will also receive support and mentoring from Carlton Football Club staff and players, with opportunities to connect with other Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples within the industry.