Representative footy is definitely it.
They're the crucible where players' reputations are forged, solidified or lost.
Great names such as Dale Weightman, Wayne Carey, Gary Ablett, Polly Farmer, Robert Harvey, Paul Salmon, Barry Cable, Robbie Flower, John Longmire, Stephen Lawrence and Gary Buckenara all slot comfortably into the first two categories.
And while Saturday night's Hall of Fame Tribute game may not be a State of Origin clash, those involved say it carries the same weight for how players are remembered.
"I think there's no doubt this will enhance guys reputations – we've spoken about this as a team – and the All-Australian selectors have said it would count towards the All-Australian team," Victorian captain Jonathan Brown said on Friday.
"The guys have got a lot of personal pride, not only playing for your state – for the Victorian boys – but a lot of personal pride on the line, playing against the best.
"We love to challenge ourselves against the best, and I think it's a fantastic opportunity.
"We always want to play well in front of a big crowd, whether it's Friday night footy at the MCG, or finals or grand finals. You want to walk off the ground and say you've played well because there's that extra pressure out there.
"It's how guys can cope with that pressure, in the build-up to the game and throughout the game.
"It's a big thing for the players."
Dream Team skipper Andrew McLeod echoes his rival.
"It's a place where reputations can be won or lost, so you're not going to go out there play half-heartedly – blokes are going to put themselves on the line," he said.
"They're representing not just themselves but their family, their state, and their club, so it's a huge honour."
Tickets for the Hall of Fame Tribute Match are selling fast. Get your tickets now via the Ticketmaster website, phone on 1300 136 122 or by visiting a Ticketmaster outlet.
