My merch story

How I found community through clothes

I’ve never felt so strongly towards a brand of clothing before. Here’s why.

I didn’t know many people or where I could fit in when I first came to Avondale. Some students already knew each other and groups of friends seemed established. I found everyone at Avondale welcoming and sweet but still felt nervous. Even though it may sound silly, investing in Avondale merchandise, like hoodies and shirts, helped me feel like I belonged.

Now, even when out, I’m bound to find someone else wearing the same Avondale hoodie or shirt. It’s a great way to start a conversation and meet new people—I’m big on socialising and building relationships.

Enough with the sappy stuff. Avondale merchandise just looks good—I love the simplicity of the design. It’s size inclusive—from 12 all the way to 2XL. And it’s cost effective—you pay for the good quality you get. The hoodies in particular are not only comfy and warm but fashionable. I feel proud of my uni, so being able to present that through my clothes is important. I’m like a walking billboard for Christian higher education.

At the moment, Avondale merchandise is limited to hoodies, t-shirts and polos. Hopefully, if more of us can support it, the more variety we’ll get.

You can see that for me, Avondale merchandise is not just about the clothes but the people who wear them. It’s about connection. To a community. To a family.