Football and netball players in all grades will wear bright pink socks for “Terry Socks it to Cancer”, inspired by former Towners’ player and coach Terry Greaves, who is receiving treatment for metastatic melanoma.
A member of the Benalla Team of the Century, Mr Greaves played 225 games across 14 seasons.
He played at All Blacks, Violet Town, Moyhu and North Wangaratta.
Towners football manager Gary Abley said the club was proud to get behind Mr Greaves and the cause to help raise money and awareness for local cancer services.
“Players and supporters are encouraged to dig deep and support a cause close to the heart of the club, which has not only affected Terry and his family, but many lives of players, supporters and volunteers of our great club,” Mr Abley said.
“We’re looking forward to hosting Undera and hopefully getting people talking about the cancer centre and the reason behind the pink socks.”
Donations will also be collected from supporters at the gates.
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 it was so important for people in the region to have access to 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.
Other leagues and clubs are expected to get behind the campaign in the coming weeks, including Benalla vs Mansfield on July 30 and all clubs in the Ovens and King Football League on August 13.
To donate online, visit give.awcancertrust.org.au/fundraisers/terrygreaves134
