Even more will be at stake when the Benalla Saints host long-time rivals Mansfield Eagles this Saturday, July 30, but it’s all in the name of a good cause.
The Round 15 clash will see players take part in the Terry Socks it to Cancer match, raising money for the Albury Wodonga Regional Cancer Centre, and the introduction of the Terry Greaves Perpetual Shield.
Saints senior footballers and A-grade netballers will wear bright pink socks, while the Eagles will be in yellow socks to reflect the colours of the Albury Wodonga Regional Cancer Centre Trust Fund.
The fundraiser has been inspired by former Benalla star, Terry Greaves, who is receiving treatment for metastatic melanoma.
It is hoped it will become an annual event with the introduction of a perpetual shield named in Mr Greaves’ honour, and sponsored by Ray White Benalla.
Saints president Lloyd Johnson said Mr Greaves was widely known for his football career in North East Victoria, which included Goorambat, All Blacks, Violet Town, Moyhu and North Wangaratta.
“Terry was a member of the Benalla Team of the Century and played 225 games across 14 seasons,” Mr Johnson said.
“With the help of the regional cancer centre, Terry is in the fight of his life and this is just one way we can show our support for him and other families in our region who have been affected by cancer.”
Mansfield president Ray Robinson said the club was proud to get behind the campaign, and urged players and supporters to dig deep to support a great local cause.
“It’s always a great game when Mansfield and Benalla meet, so we’re expecting it to be a good day,” he said.
“We look forward to hopefully get people talking about the cancer centre and the reason behind the socks because it’s such an important facility for our region.”
Mr Greaves, of Markwood, was first diagnosed with cancer 15 years ago, and experienced the challenges of having to travel long distances to receive treatment in Melbourne.
In 2020, his cancer returned and he has since received monthly treatment in Albury.
Mr Greaves said he was passionate about raising money for the cancer centre because of the importance of people in the region being able to access treatment and facilities locally.
“I’ve experienced it first-hand after having to travel to Melbourne every three months for five years,” he said.
“It is so much more convenient and stress-free being able to travel to Albury, which is just a two-hour return trip, compared to Melbourne which is six hours.”
Terry Socks it to Cancer has been organised by Mr Greaves, in partnership with AFL North East Border.
All money raised helps fund new equipment, staff training and development, research and wellness programs at the Albury Wodonga Regional Cancer Centre.
The Ovens and King Football Netball League will hold a Terry Socks it to Cancer round on Saturday, August 13.
To make an online donation, visit https://bit.ly/terrysocksittocancer