Guernsey is the new word used to describe the humble football jumper.According to the Heinemann Australian Dictionary it means a ” heavy woollen jumpers such as is worn by footballers , sailors etc. ( originally from the island of Guernsey in the English Channel )
Todays streamlined version of a guernsey is a vastly different version of a ” heavy woollen jumper. ”
The modern Jersey , Jumper or Guernsey is usually quick drying , snug fitting polyester, often without sleeves or collar . It is colourful and printed with many logos , names and sponsors.
Even the number, and sometimes the players surname is printed onto the back of the Jersey , Jumper , Guernsey.
Surely the term guernsey is just another word for jumper?
Perhaps jersey is the American term for Jumper . Guernsey is the UK term for it and jumper is Australian.
Who really cares what you call it . If you are at the Game and you are wearing your teams Jersey , Jumper or Guernsey and they are winning that is all that matters!


I always thought that a sweater was known as a “jersey” in the UK and a “guernsey” in Australia because of the Channel Islands in the English Channel – Australia chose “guernsey” to be contrary. I have no basis for this assertion, but I always thought it was a fun reason!