As an openly non-binary athlete, Darcy Vescio understands they have has a unique platform as a marquee AFLW player with Carlton to further their advocacy work, and provide a voice for those that can’t, in the areas of multiculturalism and gender equality.
Growing up in a Chinese Italian family, Darcy has personal background and experiences to draw on when working within multicultural AFL and government supporting education, promotion and inclusivity.
Current Work:
Darcy’s AFLW journey started at just 5 years old and they were one of only a few girls playing until 14 when those limited opportunities disappeared.
Darcy has a unique story of recommencing that lost football journey leading to a very successful and prominent career that has seen them with numerous achievements to their name, including a two-time AFLW Leading Goalkicker, two-time All-Australian and winning Carlton’s Best & Fairest in 2021.
But it is what footy brings to Darcy’s life in a holistic sense that they derive their greatest joy from. The sense of community and belonging and working with other people, as well as the altruistic opportunities it has given them to give back. Darcy works with several charities, organisations, and brands on issues including multiculturalism and gender and they have had the chance to use their creative side to design guernseys, including the Blues’ 2020 Pride jumper. Having loved arts and crafts from a young age, completing the study and working in the field of graphic design has been a great outlet for Darcy’s creative side and translates into a way for them to express themselves across both their football and personal life.
Darcy applies positive mental wellbeing and authenticity to their personal and professional life to be the most consistent and genuine person they can be on and off the field.