The Sydney Roosters "Wartime Bondi Blue" jersey is inked in history, untouched by time. It carries memory on every thread — and we will never change it.
Steeped in tradition and symbolism, the jersey commemorates a period when rugby league and wartime resilience were deeply intertwined, offering both a historical homage and a modern statement of pride.
The design of the Bondi Blue jersey harks back to the 1944 season — a significant time when Australia was still entrenched in the throes of the Second World War. That year, the Roosters, then known as Eastern Suburbs, defied the odds by clinching the Premiership under challenging circumstances. Many players had enlisted in the armed forces, and resources were scarce, yet the Club showcased remarkable determination and unity, values that the 2025 jersey aims to reflect.
It was during this time the Club altered their traditional jersey design due to material shortages. The Australian military's demand for navy dye to produce soldiers' uniforms led to a scarcity of this colour for civilian use. Consequently, from 1944 to 1946, the Roosters adopted a light blue jersey—known as "Bondi Blue".
The jersey’s striking colour heralds the iconic shoreline of Bondi Beach — a landmark synonymous with the Roosters’ heartland. This unique hue also references the makeshift training sessions and community gatherings that took place at the beach during wartime, as players and supporters alike rallied together through difficult times.
Order your 2025 Wartime Bondi Blue here.
The jersey features a traditional chevron, paired with a retro collar reminiscent of 1940s rugby kits.
The jersey will be worn during ANZAC Round — a fixture that holds deep significance within the NRL calendar. This annual round honours the sacrifices of Australian and New Zealand servicemen and women, and the Roosters' Wartime Bondi Blue jersey encapsulates this sentiment beautifully, blending rugby league tradition with national pride.
In wearing the Wartime Bondi Blue jersey, the Sydney Roosters aren’t just donning a uniform — they’re telling a story of grit, sacrifice, and unity.
It’s a powerful reminder that even in the most challenging of times, the spirit of the Roosters, much like that of the nation, continues to soar.
A wartime symbol. A modern tradition.
Order your 2025 Wartime Bondi Blue here.
