Essendon Football Club chief executive Peter Jackson today paid tribute to the generosity of the people and organisations that enabled almost $40,000 to be raised at last weekend's 'Clash for Cancer'. The money raised goes directly to the Cancer Council Victoria. 

The money was raised from the sale of yellow wristbands and tin collections on the day. The match also received terrific corporate support from organisations participating in the ‘Clash for Cancer Mascot Race pre-match.

Essendon chief executive Peter Jackson said he was pleased the day had been such a success. ""The Cancer Council is a wonderful charity and on behalf of the Essendon Football Club I would like to thank all those people and organisations for their generosity,"" Jackson said.

""It is our hope that the Clash for Cancer can establish itself as an annual game on the AFL Calendar. So many people are touched by this disease - we hope this becomes an important fundraising event for the Cancer Council.""

The Cancer Council Victoria’s Director Professor David Hill said, ""We would like to thank the Essendon Football Club for giving us the opportunity to be involved in ‘Clash for Cancer’ and for it’s ongoing support throughout the year.""

""It was wonderful to see so many football fans wearing their yellow wristbands at Sunday’s match and showing their support for all those in our community affected by cancer.""

""We would also like to thank St George Bank, Nando’s Australia, Clark Rubber, Clorox Australia, Boost Juice Bars and Brumby’s Bakeries who all entered their mascots into the ‘Clash for Cancer Mascot Race’.""

88,000 new cases of cancer are diagnosed in Australia each year and more than 50 per cent now survive a cancer diagnosis thanks to advances made by organisations such as The Cancer Council.

‘Clash for Cancer’ provided an opportunity for football supporters to make a difference in the fight against cancer by raising funds for The Cancer Council’s cancer research, education and patient support services.

The Cancer Council is Essendon Football Club’s preferred charity. To find out more about Essendon Football Club's support of The Cancer Council, please visit www.essendonfc.com.au or www.clashforcancer.com.au