Cancer Council NSW is proud to continue its community partnership with Sydney FC, coming together for two dedicated match days on Sunday, March 22nd (A-League Men) and Saturday, March 28th (A-League Women) for Cancer Council Week at Sydney FC and to remind fans that they are here for everyone impacted by cancer.
Six-year-old Coen Drysdale and his family have long been involved in Cancer Council events, like Relay for Life and will be taking part in a special behind the scenes match day experience.. Coen has been undergoing surgeries and treatment for his brain tumour since he was 15 months old and has undergone two surgeries.
His mother, says right now is the best that he has been in a number of years and that taking part in the Cancer Council match day is a very special opportunity for them, “we didn’t realise until we were on this journey the amount of support you get from many aspects. Not being a statistic, we are real people going through a really hard journey and know we aren’t the only ones.” An avid football fan, Coen is very excited to being taking part and delivering the ball on the day.

Cancer Council NSW Director of Marketing and Fundraising, Naomi Watson, says these match days reflect the heart of the organisation’s mission, “every year, too many children and families across NSW face the unimaginable reality of a cancer diagnosis. Through partnerships like this, we can create uplifting moments for kids like Coen, while also raising awareness of the essential support services and life‑saving research Cancer Council carries out across the state.
“Sydney FC’s commitment to kick off against cancer helps us reach thousands of fans with important cancer prevention messages and inspires community generosity that directly improves the lives of people impacted by cancer. We’re incredibly grateful to stand alongside the Sky Blues again this season.”
Sydney FC Executive Vice-Chairman, Sebastian Gray, says the club is honoured to host the family. “We’re delighted to welcome Coen and his family for what we hope will be an unforgettable day. Football brings communities together, and supporting Cancer Council NSW allows us to unite our fans around a cause that touches so many lives.
“Our players, staff and supporters are proud to stand with Cancer Council in championing cancer awareness, prevention and support.”
The match days will include opportunities for fans to donate, learn about cancer prevention, and show support through stadium activations.
If you need to talk about cancer, call Cancer Council on 13 11 20