Wanderers' Whyman joins special 'Share a Yarn' program

Western Sydney Wanderers goalkeeper Jada Whyman has joined an impressive list of elite athletes set to 'Share a Yarn' with remote Indigenous communities across Australia.

The initiative, set up by the Australian Institute of Sport, will seek to inform athletes about the history of the country and its culture, in an effort to enrich their position as role models for the community.

Whyman is among 13 current and former sports-figures - scheduled to take part in the National Reconciliation Week activities (27 May - 3 June) - including Olympic race-walker Beki Smith, paracyclist Amanda Reid and Opals forward Laura Hodges.

With physical visits on hold due to the coronavirus, the Indigenous youth of Arlparra - a community located 200 kilometres from Alice Springs - will now connect with the athletes online via the 'Share a Yarn' video platform, and in partnership with the Wanta Aboriginal Corporation.

"It was an amazing opportunity to get that job and, at such a young age, I'm really honoured to have that experience," Whyman said.

"It's amazing that athletes, who have a platform, want to do this kind of stuff ... they represent Australia, so why not know the history of it?"

At 20 years of age, the talented shot-stopper hopes her youth will create relatable relationships with Indigenous kids right across the country and help remind them that they are 'in this together'.

"My job is to be the middle person for a lot of the kids that need mental health services or anything really," she said.

"I would hope to think that these kids would think of me as a friend and someone they can always talk to.

"Sometimes they're like, 'oh, you're so easy to get along with', and I'm like, 'that's because I'm a normal person just like you guys; I'm just normal'."

Whyman's ambassadorial role will take place over a 12-month period and will involve community visits, event appearances and regular online contact with the communities.