Twenty years after 9/11 the Stray Cats will play the Marines to honour the fallen

On September 11, 2001 the Stray Cats faced a contingent of Marines in a game of rugby union. Now, the game has become an annual tradition on a day that has come to mean so much more.

ON September 11, 2001 the Stray Cats faced a contingent of Marines in a game of rugby union.

Now, the game has become an annual tradition on a day that has come to mean so much more than a game.

As fate would have it the Stray Cats played the 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) that day.

But later that night the Marines were dragged out in reaction to the terrorist attacks on New York’s World Trade Centre buildings.

David Yoder, Josh Webb and Larkin Hawkins ahead of the US Marines V Stray Cats Rugby Union remembrance match. Picture: Glenn Campbell

The commemorative game has since been played annually every year since 2013, and is one of great importance for both sides.

Stray Cats spokesman and Darwin rugby union identity Bruce Kennon said both parties were enthusiastic ahead of the 2021 iteration of the friendly match.

“It’s something we look forward to every year and is perhaps the most significant event for the Stray Cats each year,” Kennon said.

“The marines are enthusiastic, they’re all looking forward to being part of what is special day for them.

“There will be a reasonable crowd down there.

“Only 25 people will be on the field, but we’ve already had over 60 Marines request the jersey.

“It’s a social game so we’ve tweaked a few of the rules because ultimately it’s a day to pay respect to the fallen and develop relationships with our allies.”