In the aftermath of Collingwood’s thrilling Anzac Day comeback victory over Essendon last year, captain Darcy Moore achieved a remarkable feat. Amidst the contrasting emotions of Magpie Army jubilation and Essendon supporter disappointment, Moore’s heartfelt speech transcended the rivalry, uniting supporters at the MCG in a shared moment of reflection. With the Anzac Day trophy clutched in his hand, Moore addressed the record crowd of 95,179, acknowledging the significance of the day and praising the sacrifices made by Australian service men and women. “It means a lot to us that we can come together with (Essendon) and commemorate the sacrifice of not just the Anzacs, but all service men and women who have served Australia all around the world,” Moore said. His words resonated deeply with the crowd, drawing a standing ovation. Moore went on to express gratitude to those currently serving both at home and abroad, acknowledging the significance of their contributions. He also extended heartfelt thanks to veterans, recognizing their sacrifices and the legacy they have left for the nation. Finally, Moore acknowledged the often-unseen pain of war that runs through many Australian families, expressing the club’s deepest appreciation for their sacrifices. The eloquence and sincerity of Moore’s speech have made it a topic of discussion in the lead-up to this year’s Anzac Day clash. Collingwood forward Brody Mihocek, who has played in four Anzac Day matches, described Moore’s post-match address as a highlight for him, underscoring the profound impact it had on the team. “Growing up, I knew how big the day was … and we have had a few close wins and a few bigger wins. But the occasion, the build-up, is significant,” Mihocek said. “We like to experience the build-up and to talk about the history of it. ‘Fly’ (coach Craig McRae) definitely talks to us about what it means.” Moore’s speech, in particular, resonated with Mihocek, highlighting Moore’s exceptional leadership and the team’s deep understanding of the day’s significance. Essendon captain Zach Merrett echoed Mihocek’s sentiments, commending Moore’s address and recognizing its broader impact across the AFL. Asked about the speech’s origins, Moore revealed that his words came from the heart, inspired by the insights he had gained during his decade with Collingwood. “(It was) definitely not pre-planned. It came about pretty organically,” Moore said. He emphasized the club’s efforts in educating players about the significance of Anzac Day, facilitating visits to The Shrine and sharing powerful stories of Collingwood’s past players and their families’ experiences during wartime. “Hearing those stories and the gravity of it, you aren’t human if it doesn’t hit you and have an effect on you and that was certainly the case for me. I think what came out was pretty natural. It was a culmination of that week and reflecting on what it means to be an Australian on Anzac Day.” In preparation for this year’s Anzac Day commemorations, AFL representatives have engaged in educational activities, including speeches and visits to The Shrine, to deepen their understanding of the day’s significance. Former players have also shared their perspectives, emphasizing the profound impact of the match and its meaning to them. Collingwood legend Dermott Brereton addressed the Magpies, sharing his memories of the inaugural Anzac Day clash in 1995, describing it as a momentous occasion. Essendon greats Jobe Watson, Dustin Fletcher, and former Magpie Travis Cloke, now a runner for the Bombers, also spoke to players, highlighting the importance of honoring those who came before them and the sacrifices they made. “It gave us all tinkles and butterflies thinking about the opportunity at hand, but we also know we are playing a small role in the grand scheme of things, so we are very fortunate to do it with a club like Collingwood,” Merrett said. “To hear from Travis Cloke, (who had) Mick Malthouse and Nathan Buckley as his coaches, it is obviously as important to them as it is to us through education and really putting a spotlight on those who have come before us and the sacrifices they have made.” Brereton, a three-time premiership player with Hawthorn, reminisced about the inaugural Anzac Day match, emphasizing the unique atmosphere and the significance it has gained over the years. Fox Footy analyst Cam Mooney believes that the exceptional intensity and excitement surrounding Anzac Day matches stem from the profound circumstances surrounding the event. “When I look back at my time, I wish we had older players coming back to our club and saying, ‘This is what it means to be pulling on this jumper’. I think it is fantastic,” Mooney said. “When it comes to Anzac Day, it is probably the only time I was ever envious as a player of not being able to play, the only time I was envious of not being a Collingwood or Essendon player. It is every player’s dream to play on that occasion.” Mooney highlighted the transformative impact hearing from veterans can have on players, putting the challenges of football into perspective and instilling a deep appreciation for the sacrifices made by those who have served. Beyond its commemorative significance, the Anzac Day clash holds great importance for both Collingwood and Essendon, who enter the match with contrasting recent form. Reigning premiers Collingwood have bounced back from a slow start to win three consecutive games, while Essendon sits comfortably in seventh position with four wins from six matches. “It is weird. I would not even know the ladder. Early on in the year, teams win and lose and you just want to settle yourself, but our last three weeks have been awesome,” Mihocek said. “It is a big game and the Dons are four and two, so they will be up and about. Hopefully with the momentum we are taking in, we can get the win.” Collingwood has enjoyed recent dominance in the rivalry, winning the last four encounters, including a resounding 70-point victory in the final round of last season. With the magnitude of that defeat still fresh in their minds, the Bombers are eager to use this year’s clash as a measuring stick for their progress. “The important part for us is that we were able to play them when they were flying late last year, in the last game of the year, and were not able to compete with them across any quarters, really,” Merrett said. “So to be able to play them now … gives us a really good sounding board and reference as to what we have done in the pre-season and our first six or seven weeks (as) to what we have improved on or have not improved on. “In terms of importance, that will be a great reference point to look back and compare and review those two games.” The Anzac Day clash between Collingwood and Essendon promises to be a captivating spectacle, not only as a fiercely contested sporting event but also as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by those who have served Australia. The day’s commemorations will serve to honor the legacy of the ANZACs and all Australian service men and women, underscoring the profound significance that transcends the sporting arena.
Darcy Moore’s Anzac Day Speech: A Powerful Reminder of the True Significance of the Day
