Tim Kelly says Sir Doug Nicholls Round holds deep personal significance as Waalitj Marawar prepare to run out in a specially designed First Nations guernsey against Greater Western Sydney at Optus Stadium on Sunday.

Designed by Ngadju Mirning artist Andrew Beck, the 2026 guernsey celebrates culture, connection and the club’s enduring links with First Nations people, with Kelly full of admiration for the design.

“I absolutely love it. It’s always exciting wearing these jumpers,” Kelly said.

“Andrew Beck has done an amazing job, and I can’t wait to run out in it.

“It’s a big round for the AFL and everyone involved.

“As an Indigenous player myself, this round’s pretty special and always great to be a part of.”

While the occasion provides a powerful backdrop, Kelly remains focused on helping guide a young Eagles side and his role mentoring the next generation.

“Although we’ve only got a couple of wins, there’s light at the end of the tunnel,” Kelly said.

“I’m just really enjoying the process, the Monday to Friday and seeing glimpses on game day.

“The young players’ energy is pretty infectious.

“They remind you of what it’s like when you first come into the league, and that hunger is exciting to be around.

“As a player you always focus on what you need to do to get better, but as I’ve gotten older, whilst that is still number one, it’s also how can I help my teammates.

“We’ve got a really young group and it’s about helping them as much as I can.”

Kelly has been encouraged by his own form after a strong pre-season, feeling better prepared physically than in recent years as he looks to consistently influence games around the contest.

Kelly has lifted his average disposals from 17.6 last year to a team-high 23.4 this season, while also improving his contested possession (10.0) and clearance (4.4) returns, and leading the Eagles for groundballs (8.6). 

“I feel really fit and my body is in a good place,” Kelly said.

“I’m just enjoying the grind, enjoying the challenge and trying to bring my strengths each week.”

The Eagles will again lean on their midfield cohesion against a powerful Giants outfit, with Kelly under no illusions about the challenge ahead.

“When they (GWS) get a lot of things right, they’re a very dangerous football team,” Kelly said.

“They’ve been a strong side for a few years now, so we’re going to have to be at our best.”

With a run of home games ahead and strong support from the Eagles faithful, Kelly said the group is eager to deliver across rounds 12 and 13.

“The fans have been unreal this year,” Kelly said.

“Hopefully we can make the most of it, and there’s some wins there, that’s the plan.”