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Magpies in action: Collingwood players connect with patients ahead of 2026 Peter Mac Cup

1 min read 13 April 2026

As anticipation builds for the 2026 Peter Mac Cup, players from Collingwood Football Club spent time at Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre on Monday 23 March, connecting with patients, families and staff in a visit that highlighted the enduring legacy between the club and the cause.

Collingwood visit


Lachie Schultz, Wil Parker and Jack Buller toured key areas of the hospital, including the Chemotherapy Day Unit, Ward 6A, Ward 5A, specialist care units, the Adolescent and Young Adult (AYA) Centre and the Palliative Care Unit. Across each stop, players took the time to sit, listen and share moments with patients at different stages of their cancer journeys.

The visit to the AYA Centre was particularly meaningful. Designed for young people aged 15 to 25, the space offers more than clinical care — it provides connection, comfort and a sense of normality during treatment. With lounges, study nooks, creative spaces and access to games, music and group programs, the Centre supports young people to stay engaged with life beyond cancer, alongside their families and peers.

Collingwood Players 2026


The relationship between Collingwood Football Club and the Peter Mac Cup continues to carry deep meaning, strengthened by past players and personal stories. In 2025, Collingwood great Anthony Rocca shared his own cancer journey following a diagnosis of non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma, further reinforcing the importance of the cause within the football community.

Craig Connelly, CEO of the Peter MacCallum Cancer Foundation and a lifelong Collingwood supporter, said the visit brought together passion and purpose.

“There’s a long-standing connection between Collingwood and the Peter Mac Cup and seeing players spend time with patients and staff really brings that to life. It’s these moments, alongside the funds raised, that demonstrate to one of our key partners, the Collingwood Football Club, the critical research happening here at Peter Mac.”

Carlton visit 8

As the 2026 Peter Mac Cup approaches, these visits are a reminder of the power of sport to inspire, connect and support people facing cancer; and the difference every contribution can make in advancing research and care.

 

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Congratulations to @collingwood_fc on taking out the 31st Peter Mac Cup, securing the win over @carlton_fc in a hard-fought match at the MCG, and to @whispernickydaicos for taking out this year's Richard Pratt medal for the best player on the ground. On the field, patients, staff and supporters formed a guard of honour. The night began with a powerful pre-game tribute to Peter Mac, shared on the big screen and broadcast across the stadium. As Gang of Youths’ powerful rendition of Heroes rang out, thousands of phone lights shimmered across the stands, turning the ground into a sky full of stars. It was a moving tribute - a moment to remember those we have lost to cancer, and to stand alongside those still fighting, including the patients and the dedicated staff who care for them every day. Thank you to everyone who made the night possible and to those who continue to stand with Peter Mac. A very special thank you to Carlton and Collingwood, whose support we are so incredibly grateful for. For over 30 years, this match has brought rivals together to support life-saving cancer research. Thank you to @@sonyfoundation and their youth cancer program “You Can” along with @sonymusicaustralia artist @gangofyouths for helping bring this special moment to life. Stay tuned for our final fundraising result 💜🔥
“Be the change you want to see.” These are Peter’s words, a long-time advocate for social justice. When Peter’s father was treated at Peter Mac, the experience inspired him to act. Peter wants to ensure that cancer research continues to advance for future generations. Including a gift in his Will became his way of making that possible. Peter has always believed in practical action. 💬 “Awareness is important, but what really makes a difference is volunteering, donating or fundraising. A bequest achieves this,” he says. As a Friend for Life – a person who has chosen to include a gift to Peter Mac in their Will – Peter's legacy of compassion will benefit countless people in the years to come. Discover the power of a gift in your Will: foundation.petermac.org/friendforlife Read more: foundation.petermac.org/peter
We kicked off the 31st Peter Mac Cup with a memorable breakfast at the MCG on Monday morning, bringing together over 400 guests alongside @carlton_fc and @collingwood_fc to begin a meaningful week in support of Peter Mac Cup. Hosted by Fox Footy’s @sarahjonesfoxfooty , the morning featured a powerful conversation with AFL legend David Parkin and Peter Mac researcher Professor Grant McArthur who each shared their personal cancer journeys with Prostate cancer. The program also included insights from @darcymooore and @jacobweitering23 , as they looked ahead to their Round 6 showdown. A sincere thank you to the many current and former Carlton and Collingwood players who generously gave their time to be part of the event and show their support. We’re also incredibly grateful to our corporate partners, the Pratt Foundation, and @communitybank_strathmore for helping make this event possible. Now, attention turns to Thursday night’s big game. Whether you’re at the ground or watching from home, stand with us and support the fight against cancer. You can contribute to life-saving research through the Peter Mac Cup via the link in our bio.
It didn’t start as a tradition. It started as a question. What if football could do more? 👉 Swipe to see how one idea in 1993 became the Peter Mac Cup, the longest-running charity match in AFL/VFL history. Decades later, the rivalry still stands. But so does the impact. Together, we’re changing lives. Donate now to support cancer research through the Peter Mac Cup - Link in bio
This is why it matters 💜 Support the Peter Mac Cup this year and join us in making a difference to the lives of people impacted by cancer. Rivals on the field. United against cancer. Give now and help accelerate vital cancer research - link in bio
When players visit Peter Mac, it’s a reminder that this game goes beyond the field. This past week, we welcomed @carlton_fc players Nic Newman, Adam Saad, Elijah Holland and @collingwood_fc players Lachie Schultz, Wil Parker and Jack Buller to our Parkville centre ahead of the Peter Mac Cup on the 16th. The players spent time with patients, families and staff, and bringing plenty of energy (and a few laughs) along the way. Rivals on the field. United against cancer. Join the club that stands against cancer. Donate now. Attend the match. Support cancer research. Link in bio
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