When Eric Hipwood runs out at Metricon Stadium this weekend wearing the Lions’ ANZAC themed guersney he will think of his mother and grandfather.

“My Pop was part of World War II and he was actually captured for four years,” Hipwood told media and members of the Defence Force at the Gallipoli Barracks earlier today.

“It’s a good day to represent them I guess and my Mum gets pretty emotional on those sorts of days,” he said.

“I was named after him, funnily enough.”

Eric and his grandfather share much more than a name – their resemblance is uncanny, despite the decades in between them.

He never met his grandfather but he is proud to play for him and other ANZACs on Saturday.

“I’m certainly excited to go out there and play for them,” he said.

2019 ANZAC GUERNSEY AUCTION | Bidding opens 27 April 1:45PM

Joined by Ben Keays, Hipwood attended the Barracks today to present the 7^th Brigade a signed version of the guernsey.

The Lions have a proud partnership with the brigade which spans many seasons where they have worn a specially designed guernsey recognising the 7^th Brigade’s effort and dedication to our country.

Designed by the Lions graphic artists Jacob Brewer and Jordan Friedlander, the guersney proudly displays the 7^th Brigade logo, the Australian Army’s Rising Sun badge and Kokoda. Each player’s guernsey will be auctioned off with proceeds going towards 7^th Brigade’s chosen charity Legacy.

Commander Hocking of the 7^th Brigade told Hipwood and Keays troops far and wide would feel honoured watching the Lions on Saturday.

“While we hope you get some motivation from the Rising Sun on the day I know that I’ve got a lot of soldiers away overseas at the moment serving their country and I know that on ANZAC Day when they see you wearing this jersey and the 7^th Brigade logo they too will get a little bit of extra motivation to do their dangerous business overseas,” Commander Hocking said.

Bids for each guernsey will open at first bounce when the Lions meet the SUNS at 1:45PM, Saturday 27 April.