Challenge:
To celebrate Nelson Asofa-Solomona’s 200th NRL game, Melbourne Storm asked us to create something special—an illustration for a T-shirt that would capture the signficance of the occasion. The goal was simple: design a tee that not only honoured Nelson’s milestone but also resonated with the fans and players.
The challenge was to bring Nelson’s larger-than-life presence on the field into a design that fans would love to wear. It had to be bold, memorable, and a must-have for everyone who follows NAS the player, as well as the team.
Solution:
Our team created an illustration that captured Nelson’s personality and on-field characteristics. We aimed to reflect the intensity he brings to every game, so we opted for a powerful portrait style. Once the design was finalised, we ensured it looked just as striking on a T-shirt as it did on the drawing board, ready for print.
Outcome:
The T-shirt was a massive hit. It sold out both at the game and within 24 hours online, highlighting just how much the fans loved it. The players also got behind the design, with his team mates and coach Craig Bellamy all wearing the tee during their final training session leading up to the milestone game.
This project really showed how a well-thought-out design can connect with people. It wasn’t just about creating merchandise; it was about making something that NAS, his team mates and fans could feel proud wearing — a piece of memorabilia that celebrated a significant moment in Nelson’s career and in Melbourne Storm’s history.
