The annual 'Tackling Childhood Cancer' clash against the Western Bulldogs last Friday night at Marvel Stadium raised more than $65,000 to support children and their families living with cancer.

Essendon players ran out in specially decorated boots – inspired and painted by the kids from Challenge – that were auctioned off this week with their official signed playing guernseys.

The boots and guernsey auction totalled more than $26,000 for Challenge. Essendon’s longest-serving partner Yakult also generously gifted two cars for families to utilise while they are caring for their kids.

Challenge is a not-for-profit organisation that provides daily support for children and families living with cancer or a life-threatening blood disorder from diagnosis through treatment and beyond.

Challenge CEO David Rogers said the Challenge game provides great awareness to childhood cancer.

“This partnership has been super beneficial to the families and the players involved. It allows the children, their families and the Essendon players to connect in a beautiful way,” Rogers said.

Throughout the year, players contribute many hours to ‘giving back’. They help lighten a long hospital stay for many of the Challenge families by visiting the ward and spending time with the families.

Essendon Chief Commercial Officer Nick Ryan said the club was proud to partner with Challenge and Yakult to support children with cancer.

“As a club, we are really proud of the positive impact we can have on kids and their families who are going through a difficult time. Friday night at Marvel Stadium was a special night for the kids and their families and we are honoured to play a small role in positively impacting their lives,” Ryan said.

“We are united with Challenge and Yakult to continue to tackle childhood cancer into the future and improve the lives of children and their families.”