Dylan Tombides – a former Australian youth national team player – was diagnosed with testicular cancer in 2011, following a random drug test at the U-17 FIFA World Cup which uncovered a tumour in one of his testicles.
Dylan fought the illness bravely for three years, even managing to make his professional debut for West Ham United FC during that period but passed away with his family by his side in April 2014 at just 20 years-of-age.
According to Football Australia, DT38 Australia was established in memory of Tombides, with a vision to change the way testicular cancer is diagnosed by implementing best practice diagnostic guidelines for patients who present with testicular symptoms.
It also aims to arm future generations of young men with the necessary knowledge about testicular cancer, enabling them to be confident when taking health matters into their own hands.
Several initiatives have already been planned as part of DT38 Australia’s involvement in the Subway Socceroos match against Palestine, including specially designed warm-up t-shirts and in-game fan tributes.
A number of match-worn jerseys will also be made available for auction as part of fundraising efforts from the Subway Socceroos to support the work of DT38 Australia.
Football Australia CEO, James Johnson said he was proud to see the Subway Socceroos supporting such an important message and organisation.
“Dylan was a much-loved and hugely respected figure within the Australian football community, and we wanted to not only support the work of DT38 Australia, but honour Dylan’s memory in his hometown of Perth,” Johnson said.
“It’s been ten years since Dylan’s passing and it’s incredible to see the work DT38 Australia has done in raising awareness about testicular cancer through their many programs and initiatives, using Dylan’s love of football as a vehicle to unite communities and spread their important message.
“The hard work of Tracy, Taylor and Jim Tombides and their team has seen Dylan’s legacy live on and they should be extremely proud of what they’ve already achieved in proactively impacting the health of young men across Australia,” Johnson concluded.
DT38 Australia Head of Media and Operations, Donna Giuffre said she was looking forward to partnering with Football Australia for this fixture.
“This partnership is set to honour the legacy of our hero, Dylan Tombides in this upcoming Socceroos match, celebrating his enduring impact on and off the field,” Giuffre said.
“His story of resilience and determination continues to inspire the football community, reminding us of the importance of early detection and awareness in the fight against testicular cancer.
“We thank everyone at Football Australia for their commitment to the cause,” Giuffre concluded.
Subway Socceroos Head Coach, Graham Arnold said his squad was looking forward to lending their support to this important men’s health message.
“First and foremost, we want to honour Dylan’s memory. To lose someone to testicular cancer at his age is incredibly sad,” Arnold said.
“While many of our current squad didn’t play in junior national teams with Dylan, they crossed paths with him at different times and of course know his story and the work of DT38 Australia very well – it’s a cause and an organisation close to the heart of all Australian footballers.
“I’m pleased we can play a small role in supporting the Foundation’s ongoing work and contribute to spreading their message on testicular cancer awareness for men of all ages,” Arnold concluded.
Source: Football Australia
