Matthew Leuenberger says a team trip to Melbourne’s Shrine of Remembrance has helped reaffirm the significance of Anzac Day.
The former Lions ruckman is in line to represent the Bombers on Anzac Day for the first time when the side runs out for the match against Collingwood on Monday.
He and his teammates toured the Shrine and were given a first hand account of what World War II was like from former Essendon player and war veteran Jack Jones.
“The sticking thing with me was probably the age of a lot of the guys that went across,” Leuenberger said.
“I remember seeing a photo of one guy who was 14 years of age – to think at 14 that you’re involved at war is insane to me.
“I’ve always known what Anzac Day is about, but to get that refresher about what our servicemen have done over the past 100 years to allow our country to be the way it is – it’s going to be an honour to be a part of it.”
Leuenberger is finding his groove at his new Club after a disrupted pre-season.
After a strong showing against Port Adelaide, his performance against Geelong earned him votes in the AFL Coaches award.
The 27 year old edged his Cats opponents last Saturday and his tap work helped the Bombers win the stoppage battle.
“I felt like I started a bit slow – and I probably put that on the back of missing a fair chunk of the pre-season,” he said.
“I feel like I’m fit and up and going now so I feel like I’m improving by the week.”
