In addition to Red Dog’s Big Groom during the pre-season, general donations, and the Challenge game itself, the club’s recent auction of player-worn boots and guernseys provided a significant boost following the round nine fixture.
Over the past 20 years, Essendon and Challenge have raised an estimated total of $1,000,000 for the cause through the annual game and related activities.
**01:35 | May 10, 2024**
**Bombers’ Special Hospital Visit**
Ahead of our annual Tackling Childhood Cancer game, we visited the Royal Children’s Hospital with Challenge, where some special friends painted the team’s game day boots.
Essendon CEO Craig Vozzo praised the partnership between Challenge and the Bombers following a rewarding week of community engagement opportunities for players.
“The partnership with Challenge is one our football club is very proud to have been a part of for more than 20 years,” Vozzo said. “Supporting such an important cause and seeing our players, supporters, and staff unite around this community always creates a great sense of pride within our club. Welcoming the children and their families to the club was a rewarding experience for all involved. The Challenge game was a terrific week to be involved in, and we’re very excited about the future of this partnership.”
Premiership player and cancer survivor Adam Ramanauskas, whose health battle inspired the club’s Challenge partnership, visited the NEC Hangar and delivered a special speech to Essendon players before their round nine clash with the Giants, commending them for their support.
“Cancer gave me more perspective on life and what others are suffering,” Ramanauskas said. “What the playing group is doing now, particularly with the Challenge kids, is amazing. The boots being painted was magnificent, and the guys who visited the hospital yesterday, giving up their time, don’t realize the impact they have on these young kids’ lives. Running out on the field with them is a moment those kids will never forget.”
**05:08 | May 9, 2024**
**Rama’s Inspiring Words**
Premiership Don and cancer survivor Adam Ramanauskas visited the club to discuss the annual Challenge Cancer Game.
Players from both Essendon’s AFL and AFLW programs have made monthly hospital visits this season, spending time with children. A special moment occurred two weeks ago when Matt Guelfi and Georgia Nanscawen had their nails painted by young fan Alexis. Guelfi promised to showcase the nails in his goal celebrations, scoring three majors in the Challenge game after Alexis declared she ‘believed in him’ to score.
**01:32 | May 12, 2024**
**Rd 9 | Guelfi’s Heartwarming Call to Alexis**
After kicking three goals, forward Matt Guelfi called Alexis, the young cancer patient who painted his nails red for his iconic goal celebration.
The Bombers have formed meaningful relationships through these opportunities, with Jake Stringer and Darcy Parish frequently contributing to the support space, and Dyson Heppell forming a special bond with his mate Harrison.
Challenge CEO David Rogers expressed pride in the legacy formed from another successful year between the two organizations.
“The 2024 Tackling Childhood Cancer campaign has been a beacon of hope and joy for our families. The support from the Essendon Football Club has been overwhelming, turning a simple game into a powerful force for good. Seeing the smiles on the kids’ faces, enjoying everything the week provided, means so much to the families.
It reassures them that they are supported by a caring community. The Essendon players’ dedication and kindness have given these families moments they will cherish forever. This game was about more than just football; it was about showing support and solidarity for children and families living with cancer.”
