Brisbane Lions midfielder Deven Robertson is auctioning off the guernsey that was ripped off his back during a match, with proceeds going to support teammate Jarrod Berry’s breast cancer awareness campaign.
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During the Lions’ match against Collingwood last month, Robertson’s jersey was torn clean off, leaving the 22-year-old midfielder to play topless for several minutes before receiving a replacement guernsey.
The incident caused his Instagram following to skyrocket from 11,000 to over 89,000, making him Brisbane’s most followed player to date.
Now Robertson is using his wardrobe malfunction for good, generously donating the tattered jersey during an auction at Brisbane’s Hall of Fame dinner last month. All funds will back Berry’s upcoming marathon to raise awareness for Breast Cancer Network Australia (BCNA), an organisation close to his heart.
Berry tragically lost his mother to breast cancer 10 years ago and to honour her memory, he will run 42.2 miles through his hometown on November 11 with his brothers and friends.
Speaking to the media last month, Berry stated that this year’s marathon is less about fundraising and more about honouring his late mother’s legacy. He explained that he, his brothers, and their two closest friends are running the marathon to exemplify virtues like resilience, diligence, and determination that his mother instilled in them.
Berry’s mother battled breast cancer for nearly a decade before passing away. During her chemotherapy and fight against the disease, BCNA provided critical support. In 2018, Berry shaved his head and raised $60,000 for BCNA in tribute to his mother’s ongoing battle. Though she has since passed, Berry and his team aim to celebrate her life and spirit through this year’s marathon.
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Though Robertson’s shirtless stint brought amusement, he flipped his accidental fame into an opportunity to support Berry’s heartfelt effort against the disease that claimed his mom. Robertson’s selfless gesture epitomises the Lions’ spirit of mateship and resilience.
Visit Brisbane Lions’ official auction page to learn more about this cause.
Published 22-September-2023
