THE Blues will play for the Alec Campbell Cup this Sunday when they take on the Hawks as part of the AFL’s ANZAC Round.
The cup is named in honour of Alec Campbell, the final surviving Gallipoli veteran who was born and raised in Launceston, Tasmania.
Campbell joined the Australian Army at just 16 years of age back in 1915, before venturing to ANZAC Cove where he served as a stores carrier, hauling ammunition, stores and water to the trenches.
Private Campbell was recognised as an Australian Legend in 2000 for the significant contributions he made to his country.
In 2002, at age 103, he passed away. Campbell was the last surviving link to the group of Australians’ who joined with their New Zealand allies and created the ANZAC legacy.
Both football clubs will play this weekend to pay respect to all those who have served in the Australian and New Zealand armed forces.
Hawthorn captain Ben Stratton and Carlton Captain Patrick Cripps with the Alec Campbell ANZAC Cup (Photo Carlton Media)
Players from both sides will also be vying for the David Parkin medal, which will be awarded to the best player on the ground.
Parkin coached Carlton across two stints (1981-1985 and 1991-2000), winning three premierships (1981, 1982 and 1995) after having a distinguished 211-game playing career at the Hawks.
The David Parkin medal was established in 2003 to acknowledge the AFL Hall of Famers esteemed contribution to both clubs.
Sunday’s medal will be voted on by Carlton CEO Cain Liddle and Hawthorn CEO Justin Reeves.
