A- League soccer gets into Anzac Spirit with the toss of a coin

IT’S been the fair and just way to start a sports match for centuries – tossing a coin. And what better way to start Hyundai A- League soccer matches across the country this weekend than with the toss of a coin from the official Anzac Spirit Coin Collection, produced by the Royal Australian Mint for News Corp Australia.

This November 11 marks the centenary of Armistice Day and the end of World War I, and as the significant anniversary approaches, News Corp Australia commemorates the strength and spirit of the Anzacs with a limited- edition 15- day coin collection for readers, launching this weekend around the country.

The game of soccer’s connection with the military stretches back to World War I, when British and German soldiers played during the Christmas Day truce in 1914 in a Flanders field on the Western Front.

The Football Federation Australia said using a coin from the Anzac Spirit Coin Collection during each coin toss this weekend was part of the organisation’s commitment to recognise the brave men and women who have served their country, and highlight their upcoming Remembrance Round matches.

Officially unveiled at the Australian War Memorial on Thursday, each coin is labelled for one of the characteristics of the Hall of Memory’s famed stained- glass windows, representing the virtues that make up the men and women who fought – and continue to fight – for Australia’s freedom.

The first of 15 coins, together with a unique collector’s album, are free with The Sunday Mail tomorrow.