10 August 2023

On Sunday 13 August at Wentworth Park in Howrah, two local football clubs are going head-to-head in the state’s first ‘Battle of Franklin Cup’ event.

Going for the Cup is the Clarence Zebras Football Club and the Kingborough United Lions Football Club, with all proceeds on the day to be donated to Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia (PCFA).

A spokesperson from the Clarence Zebras Football Club, Gary Pitchford, said that they are looking forward to hosting the Kingborough United Lions players and supporters, as both teams raise money for a good cause.

“Our club has had many members who have been affected by prostate cancer, either directly or have had family members who have fought this unfortunate disease and this is a great opportunity for us as a club to show our support and aim towards increasing awareness to all our members and players,” said Mr Pitchford.

There will be plenty of PCFA merchandise to purchase on the day to provide support towards further research and continual care.  Also, plenty of hot food and drinks are available to purchase in the clubhouse during the game.”

Prostate cancer survivors, Rick Bennett and Andrei Norris, are volunteering at the event and have praised the Clubs for raising awareness of prostate cancer in the region.

“For me, it's about having an opportunity to create conversations and let men know it's a simple blood test. If detected early, successful and measured outcomes can be achieved,” Mr Bennett said.

“When I was diagnosed, it didn't only affect myself but my family too. Being married for over 27 years and having two boys - this is not just an old man's disease, this affects many around you, and having my family part of my journey has helped me push towards a positive outcome.”

Despite enormous improvements in prostate cancer survival rates, too many men are still dying from this disease,” said Mr Norris.

“Australian men have a 1 in 5 chance of developing prostate cancer in their lifetime. Prostate cancer is a highly treatable and manageable disease if detected early, and we need to do more to improve awareness of the risk factors and the importance of screening for prostate cancer so that no man is left behind.”

Both Mr Bennett and Mr Norris are looking forward to seeing the Battle of Franklin Cup and cheering on their common goal of supporting men and their loved ones living with prostate cancer.

Chief Executive Officer of PCFA, Anne Savage, said community events are a fantastic way to improve rates of early detection and commended the efforts of dedicated locals like Mr Bennett and Mr Norris.

“Our mission simply wouldn’t be possible without volunteers like Mr Bennett and Mr Norris, who have both dedicated countless hours of his time to improving outcomes for men in Tasmania with prostate cancer.

“We’re pleased to see them come together with the Clarence and Kingborough Football Clubs for this inaugural event, lending their invaluable perspectives and lived experiences as survivors.

“Whichever team you’re going for, we’re grateful for the support of the players, the Clubs and the fans in the crowd.

“The Battle of Franklin Cup will be one to remember and we look forward to it being the first of many!”

For more information about prostate cancer support, awareness and resources, please visit www.pcfa.org.au

ENDS

To arrange an interview with Gary Pitchford, Rick Bennett or Andrei Norris, please contact:
Laura Howden | 0468 788 609