FROM the footy field to the creative scene, CJ is talented in more ways than one - and earlier this week, he took his skills to a new stage, making his Melbourne Fashion Festival catwalk debut.

Walking for Strateas Carlucci, Jiath brought the same professionalism, presence and confidence he shows on game day, embracing an experience that was entirely new.

A different kind of stage

While fans see the polished final product on the runway, Jiath says the reality behind the scenes was something else entirely.

“To be honest, it was a bit different to what I expected,” he said.

“You see the models and designers out on the floor, but to actually be backstage and in amongst it all was a bit overwhelming at first.

“There are so many models coming in and out, getting changed and then running back out again. It’s chaotic behind the scenes.

“As AFL and AFLW players, we were just trying to soak it all in.”

With a dedicated room to prepare, chat and settle in before the show began, Jiath quickly found his rhythm, and loved every minute of it.

“It was definitely something different, and I enjoyed every single moment.”

Fashion as self-expression

For Jiath, fashion is more than just clothing, it’s an art form.

“Fashion is very important to me. I see it as a way to express who you are,” he said.

“Expression comes in different forms: fashion, music, painting and dancing. Everyone has their own way of showing who they are.

Music, in particular, has long been central to Jiath’s identity.

“Ever since I was a little boy, especially growing up in church and being in the choir, music was always there.”

Now performing under the name “COIJ”, Jiath has built a strong following, amassing more than 4,600 followers on SoundCloud while balancing life as a professional footballer.

“Creating music that resonates and reflects my vibe is important to me,” he said.

“It’s something I’ll do for the rest of my life.”

The story behind “COIJ”

The name “COIJ” is one that has followed Jiath since his early days.

“It’s a nickname all my mates have called me for years,” he explained.

“It just stuck, so it felt natural to use it for my music.”

The persona represents a different side to the explosive defender seen on field.

“It’s almost like an alter ego - more laid-back, chilled, carefree. Shoulders down, relaxed, just vibing.

“On the football field, it’s intensity, grit and determination. ‘COIJ’ is going home, making music, being around friends and vibing out.”

Jiath began DJing before being drafted, playing sets around 2021–22 after years of practice, with music always playing a role in his life.

More than just football

For Jiath, stepping into fashion spaces is about more than trying something new, it’s about showing the full picture of who he is.

“It’s very important for players to be recognised beyond just the game,” he said.

“Football is such a small part of your life in the bigger picture.

“The person always comes first before the footballer. You need to know the person before you really understand who they are on the field.

“The way someone is outside of training - that’s the real them. That’s who they’ll be for the rest of their life.”

You can follow COIJ on SoundCloud here.