For Dyson Heppell, football has never been just about what happens on the field.

Growing up in Leongatha, football was part of everyday life. It was where friendships were formed, communities came together and some of life's most memorable moments were made.

Like many young Australians, Dyson spent his weekends at local grounds following his love of the game. What started as a childhood passion eventually took him from country Victoria to the bright lights (and tram tracks) of Melbourne, where he went on to play 253 games across a 14-year career, captain Essendon from 2017 to 2022 and earn some of football's highest individual honours along the way.

But while plenty has changed since those early days kicking the footy around Leongatha, one thing has remained constant: the people.

It's a theme that runs throughout Dyson's football journey and one that's at the heart of this year's Four'N Twenty Legends Game. Beyond the big names and on-field rivalry, the event is ultimately about people, community and coming together for a cause that matters.

Ahead of the game, we caught up with Dyson to chat about football, friendships, giving back and why showing up, whether that's coming along to the game, supporting a worthy cause or simply checking in on someone who needs it, can make a real difference.