Why Collingwood Plays On Anzac Day: The Untold Story Of The Magpie Army's Impact

Admin

3 min read

Post on Apr 24, 2025

4.0

Share

Why Collingwood Plays on Anzac Day: The Untold Story of the Magpie Army's Impact

Anzac Day. A day of solemn remembrance, a day of reflection, a day etched into the Australian psyche. But for many, it’s also a day synonymous with the roar of the Collingwood Football Club faithful at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG). Why Collingwood? The story is far richer and more complex than a simple scheduling coincidence. It's a tale interwoven with history, tradition, and the enduring connection between the Magpie Army and the spirit of Anzac.

The Deep Roots of Tradition:

The annual Anzac Day AFL match featuring Collingwood isn't just a game; it's a powerful ritual, a poignant expression of national identity and remembrance. While the exact origins aren't clearly documented in a single definitive statement, the tradition’s strength stems from several key factors:

• Collingwood's Working-Class Heritage: Collingwood has historically been a club deeply connected to the working class, a demographic significantly impacted by the World Wars. Many Collingwood supporters and players have direct family links to Anzac veterans, fostering a powerful emotional resonance with the day. This strong connection to the community resonates deeply with the values of sacrifice and camaraderie embodied by Anzac Day.

• The MCG's Significance: The MCG itself holds immense historical weight. It's a venue that has witnessed countless significant events in Australian history, including Anzac Day commemorations. Hosting the Collingwood game on this hallowed ground amplifies the significance of the occasion, creating a truly memorable and moving atmosphere.

• The Power of Ritual and Remembrance: The pre-game ceremony, featuring poignant moments of remembrance and reflection, solidifies the event's place as a significant Anzac Day observance. The combination of sport and solemn remembrance offers a unique and powerful experience for attendees, fostering a shared sense of national identity and respect. This respectful balance has been carefully cultivated over decades.

More Than Just a Game: A Cultural Phenomenon:

The Collingwood Anzac Day game transcends the boundaries of sport. It’s a cultural event, attracting a massive audience both in the stadium and across the nation via television broadcasts. This broad reach significantly contributes to the widespread remembrance and understanding of Anzac Day’s significance.

The impact of the Collingwood Anzac Day match extends beyond the immediate spectators:

• Fundraising and Charity: The game often serves as a significant fundraising platform for Anzac Day charities and veterans’ support organizations, further solidifying its role in community remembrance.

• National Unity: Despite the fierce rivalries within the AFL, the Anzac Day game often transcends these divisions, uniting fans in a shared moment of respect and reflection. The shared experience fosters a sense of national unity and purpose.

• Intergenerational Legacy: The event plays a critical role in passing on the memory and meaning of Anzac Day to younger generations, ensuring the legacy of sacrifice continues to resonate through time.

The Future of the Tradition:

The Collingwood Anzac Day game remains a powerful symbol of remembrance and national identity. As long as the club maintains its strong connection to its community and the values of Anzac, this powerful tradition will undoubtedly continue to resonate with Australians for generations to come. It’s not just a football match; it's a living testament to the spirit of Anzac, a story that continues to unfold each year at the MCG.