FOR the first time, Port Adelaide will wear the RSL’s iconic ANZAC badge on its guernseys in both the AFL and SANFL when it plays in blockbuster matches at the Adelaide Oval this weekend.
The guernseys also feature the names of over 100 known Port Adelaide league players to have served during conflict since 1915.
The announcement kick-starts the build-up to all-important clashes against the reigning premiers of both the AFL and SANFL at the Adelaide Oval – Norwood on Friday night and Hawthorn on Saturday under lights.
A limited run of Power guernseys will be available through the Port Store, which will also auction match-worn guernseys of both the club’s AFL and SANFL teams from Saturday night.
Proceeds from all sales will be donated to the RSL’s South Australian branch.
Port Adelaide captain Travis Boak will lead the Power into Saturday night’s game against the Hawks, and spoke of the honour to represent all of the Port Adelaide players who have served in Australia’s armed forces on Saturday night.
“It’s an honour to be playing on ANZAC Day and wear the names of our players who fought for all of us on our guernsey,” Boak told portadelaidefc.com.au.
“I think it’s a way of showing Australia the importance we place on this day, and on what so many men and women have done for our country.
“All us players are really proud of what ANZAC Day represents, and hope we can play in a way that honours the ANZAC spirit on Saturday night.”
Port Adelaide will host Norwood in the traditional SANFL Grand Final replay at the Adelaide Oval on Friday night.
Like Boak, Summerton spoke highly of the honour of donning the ANZAC guernsey, which will bear a ‘heritage’ design of the jumper Port Adelaide wore in 1915.
The jumper features a black number panel with white number, in contrast to the iconic white number panel traditionally associated with the club’s famous jumper.
“So many Magpies went and fought in World War I, and you only need to hear the stories of blokes who put their hand up to go overseas and fight to know why this weekend is important to so many people,” Summerton said.
“Like Boaky, we want to play a really committed, team-first game on Friday night to honour the ANZAC legacy.
“Playing against Norwood will make it a really good night of footy given the traditional rivalry between our clubs as well, we’re all looking forward to it.”
Auctions for match-worn guernseys will commence following each game (SANFL on Friday night and AFL on Saturday night).
Retail ANZAC guernseys are available from the Port Store
All proceeds to the RSL of SA.
