MELBOURNE’S ANZAC Day Eve clash with Richmond has become a major event on the AFL calendar.
The initiative began in 2015, with a touching pre-game ceremony and a fierce rivalry on display at the MCG for five consecutive seasons.
Unfortunately, this game was missed last year due to COVID-19, but come Round 6, the Dees will be back on the big stage, and fashioning a new home strip.
The 2021 guernsey, designed by Melbourne-based designer Tyler Zebra, features a large red poppy, paying tribute to those who died at war, and to those still serving.
On the outside of the poppy, names of the 30 Melbourne players who died in active service during World War I and World War II are featured.
As always, the ANZAC logo is proudly presented on the front of the jumper, with the words ‘Lest we forget’ printed across the back.
The design is a special one that touches the hearts of a lot of people across the country, and one that New Balance’s Vice-President is incredibly proud of.
“Having the opportunity to produce the ANZAC guernsey each year is a real highlight for us at New Balance,” Darren Tucker told Melbourne Media.
“We are privileged to be associated with such an important night and looking forward to seeing the jumper on display, paying our respect to those who have fought for our country.”
The club is proud to honour the 30 Melbourne players who died in active service during the two World Wars:
World War I
Jim Bonelli
Cliff Burge
Jack Doubleday
Bill Fischer
Albert Gourlay
Mal Kennedy
Frank Lugton
Jim Mackie
Bill Maxwell
Fen McDonald
Alick Ogilvie
Joe Pearce
Leo Rankin
Harold Rippon
Percy Rodriguez
Bobby Royle
Alf Williamson
World War II
Syd L. Anderson
Jack Atkins
Harold Ball
Ron J.Barassi
Laurie Brady
Noel Ellis
Clyde Helmer
Derek Mollison
Ted Regan
Beres Reilly
Archie Roberts
Keith Truscott
Barney Wood
