The game, at first glance, appears to be another hard-fought clash between two teams, but it will be a huge occasion for the Pendergast family.

Geoff and Sherry Pendergast's son Ben, who played for Picton, died in 2007, but the memory of ``BJ'', as he was known among friends, is alive each year with the challenge for the BJ Pendergast Memorial Shield.

Sunday's game will be the third time the Shield has been up for grabs, with the two teams drawing in 2007 and Picton winning last year.

A 10-all draw was the result in the inaugural challenge and Picton won the shield 28-16 in last year's encounter.

Hoping for a big crowd to honour BJ's memory, Geoff has been pleased with the support shown in previous years from both clubs.

``There was a minute's silence last year before the game started,'' Geoff said.

``The reserves were in the middle of the field and the 18s stood on the sidelines.

``It's a special game and it was really emotional for us.''

Sherry said BJ played with Picton's junior teams from the under-10s.

She has also been buoyed with the support of locals showing an interest in the annual shield match.

``People are asking me in the street when the game is on,'' Sherry said.

``Ben played in the number nine jersey and every time I see that kid in that jersey I start crying.

``But it makes you proud to be a parent and I think Ben would be pleased.

``He'd be saying `this is all for me, I told you I was number one'.

``While that memorial shield is being played for, Ben is still alive to me.''

The Pendergasts urged people to attend the game to show their respect for BJ.

The game is scheduled to start at 1pm at Victoria Park.