PATRICK Cripps and Carlton took home the 28th Peter Mac Cup on Friday night. 

The 2023 contest marked 30 years since the first cup was awarded, marking the longest running charity match in VFL/AFL history between the two old enemies. Last night marked the 16th occasion the Blues had taken the cup back to IKON Park.

Looking to raise both awareness and funds for the Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, it’s a cause close to everyone at both clubs, and particularly Sam Docherty, who was pictured in the rooms with the cup post-match. 

Few can dictate the outstanding work of the Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre than Docherty, who sought treatment at the world-leading institute upon his cancer diagnosis a few years ago.

Leading the way for cancer research, education and treatment, the Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre is Australia’s only public health service solely dedicated to caring for people affected by cancer. 

He said as much in his visit on Monday to kick off the week, and his close mate in Cripps took his post-match speech on Friday night to highlight what the occasion means to the wider football club.

“This round means a lot to us and this game,” Cripps said.

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AFL R20 | Peter Mac Cup and Richard Pratt Medal

Watch the presentation of the Peter Mac Cup and Richard Pratt Medal following the Round 20 win over Collingwood.

“A special mate of ours went through a tough time, and to see what Peter Mac does for people struggling is huge.

“To everybody out there who is going through their own battle right now: if you’re family, get around them, and keep fighting.”

The night also saw Charlie Curnow awarded the Richard Pratt Medal, awarded to the best player on the ground by three members of the media. 

Named in honour of the former Carlton player, committeeman, major donor and President who passed away from prostate cancer in 2009, the Pratt Foundation was established in 1978, aiming to identify significantly improved treatment for sufferers of prostate cancer.

Curnow received the best-on-ground honours for his six-goal haul, with five of those coming in a dynamic second half. He received the full complement of votes, with co-vice captain Jacob Weitering coming in next best.

Richard Pratt Medal votes

Luke Hodge

3. Charlie Curnow
2. Jacob Weitering
1. Jack Martin

Jason Dunstall

3. Charlie Curnow
2. Jacob Weitering
1. Nic Newman

Gerard Healy

3. Charlie Curnow
2. Jacob Weitering
1. Adam Cerra

Richard Pratt Medal final vote count

9 — Charlie Curnow: 3, 3, 3
6 — Jacob Weitering: 2, 2, 2
1 — Adam Cerra: 1
1 — Jack Martin: 1
1 — Nic Newman: 1