ANZAC Day is a special day on the calendar for all Australians as a time to reflect on the sacrifice that was made for us all to have the freedom we have today.

Essendon coach James Hird reminds us there is a lot more to the day than a football match played in front of a packed house at the MCG.

“It is a magnificent day for our country reflecting on people that have gone before us and sacrificed a lot for our country,” Hird said.

“The men and women who have been in military service and what they have done in this country and also around the world is terrific to be part of.”

Captain Jobe Watson said the day is a great time to reflect on Australia’s history.

“I think personally the things that we take for granted now, once weren’t always there and people had to fight for them,” Watson said.

“That is what the day means to me, the sacrifices people made that you take for granted, it is an opportunity to remember that freedom wasn’t always free.”

Watson describes the deafening silence of the 90,000 people inside the MCG before the game as an eerie feeling.

“Given the nature of the day, how respectful people can be and that silence is something that really hits you.”

“It is important to know why you are playing on this day and what this day is and Hirdy reminds the group of what that is.”

One man that will be playing in his first ANZAC Day game is new Bomber Brendon Goddard.

Goddard said he was excited to be taking part in the biggest match on the home and away fixture.

“It is my first experience playing football on ANZAC Day and experiencing the whole day so I am really looking forward to that experience,” Goddard said.

World War II veteran and Essendon champion Jack Jones attended the shrine with Goddard earlier in the week and said it was a day all Australians should be filled with pride.

“It has grown stronger and stronger every year, you feel very proud about fighting for your country and then you walk over the bridge and go to the game and have a great day,” Jones said.

“It is a sad day early but you can’t think of it all the time you have to move on.”