It’s one of the most iconic days on the Newcastle sporting calendar, and this year’s RAAF (Royal Australian Air Force) Round will be held on Saturday 3 March as the Newcastle Jets host Sydney FC.

The annual event, which acknowledges the significant contribution the Air Force makes within the Hunter Valley region will also double as a top-of-the-table clash and could have real consequences on the make up of the top four.

The fixture will feature a number of initiatives to celebrate the RAAF and further strengthen its ties to the club including the always-popular commemorative kit – available for purchase at Everything Football Kotara.

Jets’ CEO, Lawrie McKinna said that the partnership with the RAAF was an important one to the club, the players and the wider community.

“It’s been a fantastic way for us to acknowledge the RAAF and the contribution they make to the Newcastle region,” said McKinna.

“Our two organisations will be forever-linked through our identity as the Jets, and it’s our job to foster that relationship and RAAF Round is the perfect avenue for that.

“It’s going to be a big game for us against Sydney FC and I think that it’s fitting that the RAAF are aligned to such an important fixture.”

Air Commodore (AIRCDRE), Michael Kitcher – Commander of the Air Combat Group who oversees fast jet operations from the RAAF Base at Williamtown – said the Air Force were happy to support the Newcastle Jets and proud of the links forged between the two organisations over the years.

“There are many Air Force families who are keen Jets fans and the RAAF Round provides an opportunity for them to attend the game and showcase our contribution to the Hunter in a special way,’’ said AIRCDRE Kitcher.

“Air Force is a significant contributor the Hunter – not only through direct employment opportunities and expenditure up to $1.8 Billion on base redevelopment works over the next few years – we also contribute to local schools and the community through sporting organisations and other social institutions.

“Air Force has a long and close association with the Hunter region and many of our personnel choose to live here once they leave Defence.

“We are a part of this community.”

Further details regarding RAAF Round will be announced in the lead up to next Saturday’s game.

Hyundai A-League 2017/18 – Round 22

Newcastle Jets v Sydney FC

Saturday 3 March 2018 – kick-off at 5.35pm (AEDT)

McDonald Jones Stadium

About the RAAF Base at Williamtown:

RAAF Base Williamtown has over 2,000 families living in the Newcastle and Hunter Valley community and is Australia’s main fighter pilot training base.

Through its employment of over 3,500 military personnel, civilians, and contractors, RAAF Base Williamtown invests $280 million annually in salaries to people and families based in the Newcastle and the Hunter Valley.