Essendon and Challenge have marked the 21st year of their ongoing partnership with a big week of events supporting children and families affected by cancer.
Ahead of the annual Challenge game against GWS at Marvel Stadium this Saturday, the Bombers opened the doors to the NEC Hangar on Wednesday for a special group of kids to hand-paint designs for the playing group’s boots.
Using the day to spend quality time with children doing it tough, each Bomber will wear their unique pair on-field for the clash with the Giants.
Following up on Thursday afternoon, a group of players from Essendon’s AFL and AFLW lists ventured to the Royal Children’s Hospital in Melbourne, providing a special opportunity to hang out and share stories.
In the cases of Georgia Nanscawen and Matt Guelfi, their day also held a wholesome nail-painting session with a distinct Essendon look.
Prior to the Bombers’ Captain’s Run training session on Friday morning, club Premiership player and cancer survivor Adam Ramanauskas spoke to the playing group about the importance of the Challenge game.
The club’s involvement in the cause dates back to Ramanauskas’ first diagnosis in 2003, who would overcome multiple bouts of cancer to successfully return to the playing field before his eventual retirement in 2008.
This week, Essendon’s longest-serving partner Yakult will be gifting a $20,000 donation to the Challenge game, serving as its Major Event Partner.
The Bombers’ clash with GWS kicks off at 4:35pm from Marvel Stadium this Saturday, with the players’ run-out alongside the Challenge mascots set to be a major highlight from a game that means more than footy.
