A Vision for the Future of Anzac Day in the AFL
Kevin Sheedy, a revered figure in Australian football history, has put forward an ambitious idea to bring an AFL game to New Zealand or New Guinea as a tribute to the ANZACs. This proposal comes from a man who has long been associated with the significance of Anzac Day in the sport.
Sheedy was instrumental in creating the traditional Anzac Day blockbuster between Essendon and Collingwood in 1995. That match consistently drew crowds of around 90,000 at the MCG, highlighting the sacrifices made by those who served the country and those affected by war. However, Sheedy believes that this tradition should not be confined to Australia alone.
He suggests that the contest could extend to “our Allies” who played a crucial role in protecting the country during World War II. According to Sheedy, the idea of holding a game in New Zealand or New Guinea would be a fitting tribute to these nations.
“One of the discussed I had, it was very difficult to even get an hour in New Zealand or New Guinea before the Essendon-Collingwood game,” Sheedy shared with Zero Hanger. “The game got that big in the day, and you’ve got the march, and then you can’t have it after the final siren of the Collingwood game.”
Sheedy also highlighted the importance of timing, suggesting that a game could be held before the Melbourne-Richmond game on the day before the 25th. This approach would allow for a more meaningful celebration of Anzac Day while still maintaining the integrity of the existing fixtures.
The Evolution of Anzac Day Matches
Over the past decade, the AFL has expanded its Anzac Day celebrations, incorporating surrounding fixtures that honor the spirit of the occasion. One notable example is the Anzac Day eve clash between Richmond and Essendon, which has been a success since 2015. These matches have become an essential part of the Anzac Day tradition, drawing large crowds and generating significant interest.
New Zealand has previously hosted several games to commemorate the centenary of the formation of the ANZACs between 2013 and 2015. During this period, three games were held in Wellington, featuring teams such as St Kilda, Sydney, Brisbane, and Carlton. While these matches did not always result in victories for the home teams, they were significant in fostering a sense of unity and respect for the shared history between Australia and New Zealand.
Potential for International Matches
Sheedy’s vision for an international Anzac Day game is not just about expanding the reach of the AFL but also about honoring the contributions of allied nations. By hosting a match in New Zealand or New Guinea, the AFL could create a new tradition that celebrates the shared values of courage, sacrifice, and camaraderie.
This idea aligns with the broader goals of the AFL to promote the sport globally and to recognize the historical connections between different nations. It also offers an opportunity to engage with fans in new markets and to strengthen the bonds between Australian and international communities.
Conclusion
Kevin Sheedy’s proposal to take an AFL game to New Zealand or New Guinea on Anzac Day represents a bold step towards recognizing the contributions of allied nations. As the AFL continues to evolve, it is essential to honor the past while embracing new opportunities for growth and connection. By bringing the game to new locations, the league can ensure that the spirit of Anzac Day remains alive and relevant for future generations.
