While rugby punters in Auckland are used to the navy blue of College Rifles, the club will run out wearing something a bit different, and very special, this weekend.

The club is continuing their ANZAC tradition for a fourth year, in donning a one-off ANZAC design to commemorate their rich military heritage.

College Rifles archivist Derek Rope said College Rifles is the only surviving club in the country with military beginnings and had to shut done during WW1 when 334 members were involved in active service.

“1917 was the bloodiest year of WW1 and that is often forgotten. Our jersey represents the five major battles of that year,” said Rope.

The club works alongside apparel suppliers Samurai on the design.

The 2017 jersey features the five battles listed under the club crest and a poppy at the centre. The names of 54 College Rifles men who lost their life while serving are listed on each shoulder.

Rope said the dark design reflects how hard 1917 was.

“This was the worst of it. We have done study into the battles and want to highlight what it might have been like – it wasn’t a nice time in the trenches, it was dark and sinister.”

The importance the club’s military history is not lost on the players. Rope said they are all well aware and there is significant interest in learning the background.

Post match the jerseys are presented to club sponsors with supporter jerseys available to purchase. The money goes towards the yearly ANZAC parade.

Tuesday will again see club members and the local community march up Remuera road with 54 white crosses before descending on the club for the official service.

Rope said it is a special occasion for the club.

The battles represented on the 1917 commemorate jersey are:
Battle of Messines
Battle of Passchendaele
Battle of Broodseinde
Battle of Ayun Kara
Polderhoek Attack