Footy games are a big part of Anzac week, even for members of our nation's armed forces. This year marks the 20th edition of an exhibition match between the ADF and emergency service personnel, with the clash representing more than a game for all involved.
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00:00For the members of the Australian Defence Force, it's much more than a game.
00:07My great-grandfather served in both world wars, so it's pretty special to be able to play.
00:11It's not really on Anzac Day, but to play during the week or after it, it's pretty special for me.
00:15The three branches of the ADF coming together to form the All-Stars.
00:19A unique bonding experience for the nation's servicemen.
00:22Footy being a great sport, everyone just gets around each other.
00:25Second you step onto the field, you're like family.
00:27We've been playing an exhibition match against Australia's combined emergency services.
00:31The two sides building a fierce but respectful rivalry over the last 20 years.
00:36I'm sure when we go out there it's just playing footy, but the respect between both the Aces and the ADF All-Stars is there as well.
00:41During the game, it's very hard-hidden, yeah. As soon as that fire on siren goes, we're all best buddies again.
00:46It's a special day for both sides, with players from all over the country gathering in Adelaide,
00:51sometimes meeting for the very first time.
00:54We also get to play against the Defence Force, which is a bit of an honour on Anzac Day, their day.
00:59We get to share that with them out in Adelaide Oval.
01:01The Aces team is backed by charity Mesha, which supports the mental and physical health of military and emergency services personnel.
01:09And these players are leading by example.
01:11We're hoping to break down that stigma as much as possible about speaking about your mental health.
01:15Mental health is as important as your physical health.
01:17Played as a curtain-raiser before this weekend's AFL match, this will be the 15th clash between the sides at the Adelaide Oval.
01:24But those involved hope it could get to an even bigger stage.
01:27The potential for this concept and this game to be played on the bigger stage,
01:32probably before Collingwood-Essen on the Anzac week, is certainly one that we'd be open to.
01:36Anyone with a ticket to Port Adelaide's match on Saturday is able to attend from bounce down at 1.25.
01:47We will be organized by 24.
01:48That happens.
01:50So, we need a book on Game ficar .
01:52What was your entrepreneurial choice?
01:53Where do you find out from country's point in front of a line?
01:56There's aalla of interest in opportunity for these different players to keep
01:59up in front of the mid and up Saunders.
02:01We will be smiling at Schuss Complex.
02:02And I frequency him on the other wasn't probl zmian for the first time.
02:06OK.
02:07I mean conversation is behind particular circumstances.
02:09What's going on?
02:10There's a distinction between those players.
02:12What can you go on?
02:13There's aятно there's a greatko if you know anything.