""I think this game is a classic example of how football can play an enormous role as a catalyst to actually build a significant bridge in the next 50 to 100 years.

""And if we get it right, it will be just as good as ANZAC Day in a couple of years.""

Sheedy called for Essendon and Richmond fans, and supporters of football of any kind, to journey to the MCG and create an action packed atmosphere that such a significant match deserves.

""I think we average about 50,000 and I think only a few years back there was a 90,000 crowd, not that long ago so we want to build it up and two good sides having a crack at each other is a good reason for that,"" he said.

""We hope that supporters will get behind this match and help create a fantastic atmosphere for kids who are out there at the top of Australia. With the game being televised into Darwin, they will have the opportunity to watch this great game and hopefully it will really set their dreams alight so that they too can be out there one day.""

In addition to the Essendon/Richmond clash, Sheedy has encouraged fans to get to the game early to watch the pre-game match between the Tiwi Islands and Rumbalara.

""It going to be really good. A lot of people talk about how we should have VFL and reserves back playing before a game of AFL footy,"" he said.

""Well now we have got a game beforehand and we don’t know what it is going to be like so we are encouraging fans to get there early and we will see whether they are serious about wanting to watch a game before the seniors.""