The GIANTS are proud to enter into a partnership with the Australian Defence Force Australian Rules Association.

The partnership was formalised following a wreath laying at the Australian War Memorial in Canberra on Wednesday before the GIANTS attended the ANZAC Challenge Cup dinner at the Royal Military College-Duntroon.

“We’re incredibly proud of this partnership and excited by the opportunities to come between our two organisations,” said GIANTS Chief Commercial Officer Shaun James.

“As we know, the Australian Defence Force has a rich history in the nation’s capital.

“While the GIANTS may only be just over a decade old, Canberra has played a crucial role in our own history and is a key part of our growth and future. Some of the biggest moments in our club’s short history have occurred right here in Canberra. 

“Sport is an amazing conduit to bring people together and AFL football has a wonderful place within the Armed Forces. 

“We look forward to many more opportunities to work alongside each other and continue to showcase the work of the Australian Defence Force and the GIANTS together.”

The GIANTS’ Friday night’s match against St Kilda at Manuka Oval in Canberra will begin the competition-wide ANZAC Round across the AFL.

The Women’s ADF All-Stars will play against the NSW Police Force as a curtain-raiser at Manuka Oval at 4pm on Friday, competing for the ANZAC Challenge Cup.

The game will also feature a pre-match commemoration ceremony ahead of ANZAC Day on Monday as the GIANTS push for an annual ANZAC Round match in the nation’s capital.

“Australian Rules Football encourages the same creativity and personal characteristics that the ADF aims to nurture in our people for their military roles,” said Brigadier Dave Smith, Chairman of the ADF Australian Rules Association.

“The ADF provides opportunities for all members to play an elite standard of Aussie Rules as a player, umpire, coach or administrator, representing their Service and the ADF.”