Calling The AFL For Arms Towards Cancer

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Author: Maddalena Galli

Started: May 9, 2007, 5:59:27 am

Target: Mr Andrew Demetriou

Category: Uncategorized

Supporters:

Goal:

100,000

Goal Progress:

Status

Active

We, the undersigned, hereby request that the AFL grant permission for their players to wear yellow armbands in support of the Call to Arms Campaign. Initiated by the The Cancer Council Victoria, the campaign is ‘an opportunity for local football communities to unite as one, on Saturday 23 and Sunday 24 June, and significantly impact the cancer fight.’

Cancer Council Fundraising Director Deb Stringer has called for wide-spread support of the campaign. "Cancer knows no boundaries," she said. "We're inviting players and supporters from all clubs across the state to celebrate with cancer survivors, support those currently facing the cancer fight and remember loved ones lost, by wearing a yellow armband during their games over the Call to Arms weekend."

The campaign holds sentimental significance for the Essendon Football Club, as one of their own players, Adam Ramanauskas, has recently overcome a four-year battle with cancer. Ramanauskas said he hoped football Clubs across the state would get on board.

"We have all been touched by cancer in one way or another and Call to Arms is a fantastic way to raise funds and awareness," Ramanauskas said. "Together we can make a significant contribution to the cancer fight."

Essendon Managing Director Peter Jackson said the Club placed great value on its relationship with the Cancer Council and the work it does in combating the disease.

"This is a very important partnership and we hope Call to Arms will develop into a very significant fund-raising event annually," Jackson said.

"Essendon has played a role in getting this campaign off the ground because of this relationship and the experiences of Adam Ramanauskas."

"You don’t need to be an Essendon supporter to get involved. Cancer does not discriminate, this is about raising funds and awareness for the benefit of everyone..... I am sure Call to Arms will also be a great success." Jackson said.

Essendon were last year fined $20,000 by the AFL for wearing yellow armbands in their match against Melbourne, an action which garnered great support from the wider football community. The fine was donated towards cancer research.

Call to Arms participants will be able to make a donation to the Cancer Council for their armbands. All money raised enables world-class cancer research, many programs which educate Victorians on cancer risks and ways of preventing cancer, and support services for those affected by cancer.
Please sign our petition to show your support for the campaign going ahead at AFL level. Call to Arms takes place on Saturday 23 and Sunday 24 June, the weekend prior to Clash For Cancer - a special AFL Call to Arms game between Essendon and Melbourne at The Dome, on Friday 29 June.

Clubs wishing to register for Call to Arms can visit www.calltoarms.com.au or call 1300 65 65 85 for more information. Please sign our petition to show your support for players to partake in the campaign at AFL level. The petition will be forwarded to Mr. Andrew Demetriou, Chief Exectutive Officer of the AFL.

*information and statements taken from www.cancervic.org.au*