The 2026 Sir Doug Nicholls Round Sherrin Game Ball is designed by Bayley Mifsud, a proud Peek and Kirrae Whurrong woman from Warrnambool, who now lives and creates art on Wurundjeri Country in Naarm (Melbourne). Bayley’s Aboriginal name is Merindah-Gunya, meaning Beautiful Spirit in Peek Whurrong language.

“This artwork celebrates the deep connection between football, family, and community. Some of my earliest memories are from growing up at the local footy club – running around the boundary line, hearing the siren, and being surrounded by people who felt like family. Footy was our meeting place.

“A big part of this story is my Nan and Pop, who were always there supporting Dad and looking after us kids. They made sure we were safe, loved, and connected – teaching us what it means to show up for family and community. Their enduring presence is woven through this design.

“The journey lines also pay tribute to Dad, whose strength and influence sit quietly in the background of my life. Football was his way out and has given our family the opportunity to live by choice – not by chance. This piece honours him and carries our stories forward.

The central meeting places represent football clubs across Country, with surrounding people symbols showing the players, supporters, and the kids growing up on the sidelines, just like I did.

“This design is a tribute to family, community, and the spirit of football that brings us all together.”
The word Marngrook replaces the Sherrin text on a panel of each of the game balls. Marngrook is a Gunditjmara word for “game ball”, and the Indigenous game of marngrook is thought to be the origin of Australian Football.
Proceeds from the 2026 Sir Doug Nicholls Round Sherrin range will be donated to the AFL’s First Nations Impact Fund.