What ANZAC Round means to Darwin

The NBL1 North’s Darwin Salties have announced their inaugural Defence Force Game, between the Australian Defence Force (ADF) and the US Marine Corps to take place with the NBL1’s annual ANZAC Round. 

One of the assistant coaches for the women’s team is Lieutenant Jo Mercieca. She has played basketball since she was five years old and has brought her love of the game into her current service with the ADF. 

Delivering coaching and refereeing courses in Papua New Guinea and running basketball programs in Samoa, the basketball coach says that the ANZAC Round and the Salties’ inaugural Defence Force Game are important to the region.

“Darwin is embedded deeply in Australia’s military history. In February 1942, Darwin had more bombs dropped on it than Pearl Harbour by the Japanese forces, and marking the only sustained attack on Australian soil during the war,” she told NBL Media. 

“Darwin and Katherine are homes to the Navy, Army and Air Force bases. Each year a rotation of US Marine Corps and US Navy Officers and Sailors come to Darwin, known as the Marine Force Rotation – Darwin (MRF-D). There are approximately 6000 Australian Defence Personnel in the Northern Territory.” 

Mercieca explained that the recognition that troops like her receive in this Round, and the inaugural Defence Force Game shows how the Salties have brought the community closer together. 

“The event showcases the club’s dedication to supporting those who serve our country, enhancing morale and camaraderie among our service people and the broader community,” she said. 

“The curtain raiser for the Salties between the ADF and USMC is bringing together military personnel from different nations in the spirit of friendly competition and mutual respect. It is a fun way to celebrate the bond between allies and to honour the dedication and sacrifice of their service.

Mercieca explained that this Round and the game will represent many of the things that the ANZACs embodied during their service in World War 1 to protect Australia and New Zealand. 

“The exhibition match embodies the spirit of the ANZACs who fought side by side with their allies during WWI, this event symbolises the enduring bond between nations in times of peace and conflict,” she explained.

“It demonstrates mutual support, respect and cooperation, echoing the ANZAC spirit of unity in the face of adversity. This match serves as a tribute to the ANZAC legacy and their commitment to serving together for a common cause, highlighting the ongoing partnership and friendship between Australia and the United States.” 

The Salties host the Gold Coast Rollers tomorrow during their inaugural Defence Force Game live from 6:30pm AEST via NBL1.com.au or the NBL1 App.