Kevin Sheedy has spoken to GIANTS TV about what the iconic ANZAC Day clash means to him.

Coming from a long line of defence force personnel, Sheedy helped to develop the concept of the ANZAC Day match between Essendon and Collingwood along with then Magpies Football Manager Gubby Allan.

Almost 20 years later, the ANZAC Day game has become a permanent fixture on the AFL's calendar, with a packed MCG paying their respects to those who have served our country.

Sheedy, who was coaching Essendon at the time, has also reunited with Allan who is now General Manager of Football at the GIANTS.

"My grandfather was in the first World War, my Uncle was in the Second World War, my Dad was in the Army and so was I," Sheedy said.

"Having been around the defence forces you get a feel for it, it's a team and these people give us the freedom and the democracy that we are allowed to have.

"We fight for those rights and they are the people who actually do the fighting and negotiating, so it's a fitting tribute," he said.

"It's the biggest game on the home and away calendar now and to see 90-95,000 people pack out the MCG and show their respect, it's a compact and impressive sight," Sheedy said.

Press Play to watch the full interview on GIANTS TV