Adamstown Rosebud and Charlestown Azzurri will compete for the inaugural Northern NSW Football Men’s NPL Anzac Cup when they take the field on 25 April at Adamstown Oval.
And, as part of a remembrance service at the game, young men and women from the Adamstown-based 211 Army Cadets Unit (ACU) will conduct an armed catafalque party and flag party.
As is customary, the Last Post and Rouse will be played and there’ll be a minute of silence to remember those diggers who have served, including those who have passed away.
Rosebud vice-president Craig Eardley said the club has previously marked Anzac Day with a service at home games.
However, in 2022, with the support of Newcastle-based broadcaster of football and other sports, BarTV Sports, it has initiated a perpetual trophy for this and subsequent Anzac round clashes.
“Thanks to Josh Mason and BarTV Sports, we have an Anzac Cup as another way the local soccer community can honour our diggers,” Eardley said.
“With the uncertainty in the world and war in Ukraine, it is as important as ever to remember those who have served, and continue to serve, to defend the freedom and democracy we enjoy as Australians.
“Our club is about football, values and community.
“So, we think it is important for our players to be involved in Anzac commemorations.”
Azzurri secretary Roger Steel said the Charlestown club was looking forward to being involved in the event.
“It is an important day to mark, and our organisation is proud to be honouring and remembering the sacrifices of our service men and women,” he stated.
The Anzac legend was born on 25 April 1915, when some 20,000 soldiers of the Australian and New Zealand Army Corps (ANZAC) landed under fire on the shores of Gallipoli, Turkey.
Today, Anzac Day serves to remember all those who have served to defend Australia including in peacekeeping missions.
The Australian Army Cadets is a community-based youth development organisation focused on Defence customs, traditions and values.
It provides young people with leadership, team building and survival skills.
There are 26,000 young Australian involved with Army, Navy and Air Force cadets.
To find out more or join the local ACU, email [email protected] or phone 4985 3650.
The round seven clash is the only NPL Men’s game scheduled for Anzac Day.
The service will take place at 1.40pm, prior to the first grade game kick off.
Entry to NPL games is $10 for adults and $5 for concession.
Veterans can attend the service and football games for free.
Kick off times:
- Under 18s: 10.15am
- Reserve grade: noon
- Anzac Day service: 1.40pm
- First grade: 2pm
Lest we forget
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