Demons and Tigers to clash for a causeSaturday, August 24, 2013 - 9:40 AM

Perth and Claremont will help raise awareness of Prostate cancer when they clash at Brownes Stadium this weekend, with the winner to claim the inaugural Pyke Cup.

Perth Football Club supporter and former television personality Jeff Newman, who was recently diagnosed with prostate cancer, will toss the coin and be a special guest at the game. He will be joined by his brother Peter and Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia (PCFA) State Manager Cate Harman.

PCFA representatives will collect donations and hand out information on the day and the Newmans will share their stories at the pre-game lunch in relation to the disease.

All players will wear blue armbands to acknowledge the cause.

Ms Harman said the support of Perth and Claremont Football Clubs in raising awareness about the disease was outstanding leading into International Prostate Cancer Awareness Month in September.

“In September we celebrate Father’s Day and its footy finals time. What better time to host a barbie with friends and family and encourage your mates to have conversations about prostate cancer and help raise funds to fight this disease,” she said.

“Prostate cancer is the most common cancer in Australian men and is the second most common cause of cancer deaths in men. More men now die of prostate cancer than women die of breast cancer.

“While younger men are less likely to be diagnosed with prostate cancer, they are more likely to die prematurely from it – prostate cancer is not just an ‘old man’s disease’. If prostate cancer is detected and treated before it leaves the prostate gland then it is potentially curable. Early detection is the key to saving lives,” she said.

“It is really important to talk to your mates and the significant men in your life about prostate cancer.”

The winner of Saturday’s game will receive the inaugural Pyke Cup, named in honour of father and son Frank and Don Pyke, who played for Perth and Claremont respectively.

Frank Pyke

Frank played 130 games for Perth after making his senior debut for the club in round one of the 1959 season at the age of 17. Playing originally as a half-forward flanker, and later as an onballer, Pyke became a regular in the Perth side and finished third in the Sandover Medal in 1962 and second in 1963. He played in the club's 1966 premiership win over Subiaco.

Don Pyk

Don was recruited by Claremont for the 1987 season and played in the club's premiership win over Subiaco. He won the club’s best and fairest the following year and was recruited by the West Coast Eagles in the 1988 Draft. Making his debut in round one of the 1989 season, Pyke went on to play in both the 1992 and1994 West Coast premiership sides. A shoulder injury forced his premature retirement from playing AFL in 1996, although he returned to play in Claremont's 1996 premiership side.

About PCF

Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia (PCFA) is the peak national body for prostate cancer in Australia. It plays a vital role in the fight against this dreadful disease and is dedicated to reducing the impact of prostate cancer on Australian men, their partners, families and the wider community.

PCFA achieves this by

Promoting and funding world leading, innovative, cutting edge research into prostate cancer.

 Implementing awareness campaigns and education programs for the Australian community, health professionals and Government.

Support men and their families affected by prostate cancer, through information and resources, support groups and Prostate Cancer Specialist Nurses.

For more information about prostate cancer go to www.pcfa.org.au or call PCFA WA Office on 9381 7444