Thursday night’s Anzac Day clash was officially launched at Wellington’s Westpac Stadium today, just over 24 hours before the first bounce of the ball on international soil.

Sydney Swans coach John Longmire and co-captain Kieren Jack were joined by St Kilda counterparts Scott Watters and Nick Riewoldt ahead of tomorrow’s historic match, which will be played for the inaugural Simpson-Henderson Trophy.

Longmire said the match was an opportunity for the Swans to be part of something unique, on a day that is so meaningful to Australians and New Zealanders alike.

“The opportunity to be able to play for the first ever game point outside of Australia is quite unique and is obviously a tremendous opportunity for us,” Longmire said.

“To be playing on Anzac Day, it’s one of the most significant days that we actually play sport on.

“To be able to come across here and represent the Sydney Swans and our code along with St Kilda, I think is a great opportunity for both clubs.

“Whether you’re a more mature player or a young player, the opportunity to be able to do something unique and as a first is not something that happens all the time.”

While tomorrow’s match is of great historic significance for both the AFL and the two clubs involved, Longmire said the main focus of the Swans trip to Wellington was be to return home with the four points.

“It’s something that at the end of the day does bottle down to two teams just wanting to win and representing their clubs in the best possible way on a significant day, and that’s what both teams will be trying to do tomorrow,” Longmire said.

“That’s the real challenge and that’s the opportunity that awaits for both teams and it’s something we’re both looking forward to.”

For the many new fans in the stands tomorrow night, the story of Swan co-captain Kieren Jack transition from junior rugby league to AFL is likely to be of interest.

Jack said that like him, he expected there would be fans at Westpac Stadium who might develop a greater interest in the game after experiencing it tomorrow night.

“The more people who come out – that’s where it starts,” Jack said.

“People come out and watch and they develop an appetite for something, and some kids might come along and really enjoy it and decide to take it up and that’s positive for the game and is positive growth and hopefully we can put on a good show and people really enjoy it.”

A great turnout is expected at Westpac Stadium tomorrow night, with AFL Deputy CEO Gillon McLaughlin estimating that more than 20,000 fans would come out for the clash.

“We’re here in beautiful Wellington and Westpac Stadium is looking fantastic and we’re optimistic for a great crowd tomorrow night,” he said.

“They will enjoy a great spectacle and for those who have watched AFL on television, those who have watched the game know that it is much better live.

“Coming here we’re optimistic for 20,000-plus, and certainly the ticket sales and how it has been received, we’re really confident of exceeding that.”