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For over 15 years Graham Cornes was a champion footballer for Glenelg in the South Australian Football League. He has also served in Vietnam as a soldier.
But, Cornes’ comments over the weekend, where he criticised the presentation of Anzac medals to players judged best-afield in their respective matches, were simply wrong.
Cornes believes that no AFL player is deserving of an Anzac medal – presumably because they have not served as a soldier abroad.
Firstly, no one has ever stated that the medals are the equal of those rewarded to troops who have worked overseas – obviously, they are not.
But, from a sporting point of view, and on a weekend where we remember those who have made the ultimate sacrifice, the medals are appropriate recognition for the players who earn them.
Can you imagine the pride that Essendon’s Paddy Ryder felt when he was awarded the medal for spearheading the Bombers miraculous victory over Collingwood?
The medals, in each match, are awarded to the player who best displays the spirit of the Anzacs, on the football field, not in the field of war, Graham.
This is the distinguishing factor, something Cornes seems to have ignored to launch an argument with little, if any, substance.
It is a round of football where we remember those who have gone before us.
Cornes’ sons, Port Adelaide’s Chad and Kane, have both claimed the medal in the past.
Do you think their Dad has confiscated those? Not a chance.
So why scrap the medals when they are awarded with nothing but the right intentions in mind.
They provide lifelong memories for the recipients and have a strong connection to those we honoured over the weekend.
Lest we forget.
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