MARCH, THEN SPORT: Sporting events to be given the go ahead on Anzac Day 2009, as long as they’re played after midday.

LOCAL approval of sporting events being played on Anzac Day next year has been given by Mansfield RSL president Major Bruce Bingham, providing they don’t take place before midday.

With Anzac Day falling on a Saturday next year, Major Bingham said there should also be some recognition at each sporting event to commemorate fallen soldiers.

"Sport is an example of Australia’s very social fabric which servicemen and women fought for in all the wars over the years," he said.

This is a view shared by Nationals’ spokesperson for Veterans’ Affairs and Sport and Recreation, Hugh Delahunty.

And Mr Delahunty has written to RSL Victorian president Major General David McLachlan AO, asking for a blanket approval across the state.

"A number of sporting organisations have contacted the Victorian Liberal Nationals Coalition seeking clarification on whether it was appropriate to hold Saturday sporting events on Anzac Day 2009, as part of their regular events program," he said.

"The Coalition acknowledges the sensitivity of this issue, but we also believe these events should be allowed to proceed on the strict proviso that appropriate recognition, which would highlight the significance of this special day - such as a minute’s silence or inviting a member of the RSL to toss the coin - be given before the game.