Participants at all levels are encouraged to wear a yellow armband at one of their games during July to help raise awareness and funds for cancer, a disease that effects 1 in 2 men by the age of 85.
The Call To Arms campaign, established by Essendon and The Cancer Council in 2007, will be officially launched at the fourth annual Clash For Cancer AFL match Essendon and the Melbourne Football Club on Friday 19 June at Etihad Stadium. Both teams will wear a special guernsey with a yellow band as a show of honour and respect for all men who have survived cancer, those currently facing the cancer fight and to remember mates who have lost their lives to cancer.
Supporters at the game can also purchase a yellow Call To Arms slap band with all money going to Cancer Council Victoria.
Essendon is urging all sporting clubs across the country to join the Call To Arms campaign to support the cancer fight and help save the lives of men facing cancer across Australia.
“We think it is important to raise awareness because cancer can affect anyone whether you are an elite sportsperson or not,” Essendon’s Adam McPhee said. “According to the statistics, compared to women, Australian men are more likely to be diagnosed with cancer, and more likely to die from the disease. The Clash for Cancer is an important match that will not only raise funds to help fight the disease but hopefully raise awareness about cancer.”
Clubs can register now online – calltoarms.com.au.
The campaign is open to all ages, from junior leagues up to professional clubs, and all codes, from AFL, rugby and soccer through to hockey and water polo. Clubs are encouraged to run fundraising activities on the day or throughout the month and donate to The Cancer Council. All funds raised go towards helping to prevent cancers in men, finding new treatments and funding support programs for men in need.
Other professional sporting clubs taking part in Call To Arms this year include the Adelaide Crows, West Tigers, Adelaide United Football Club, Melbourne Vixens and Socceroos star, Tim Cahill. For more information and to register, visit calltoarms.com.au or call 1300 65 65 85.
