Congratulations to former Phillip Islander Sam Docherty, who won the 2023 Jim Stynes Community Leadership Award on Monday night, for his work raising funds for cancer research.
The award was announced as part of the Brownlow Medal presentation.
The former Carlton skipper has had his own cancer battle, recovering twice from testicular cancer.
So far, he has raised $220,000 for the Peter MacCallum Cancer Foundation through his “Do it for Doc” initiative.
Sam now holds a voluntary role as an Observer on the Board of the Peter Mac Cancer Foundation and is an ambassador for the Peter Mac Cup, which takes place between Carlton and Collingwood every year and is the longest-running charity match in the AFL.
He is also an ambassador for Paws4Kids which is a program run through MacKillop Family Services. This initiative allows more vulnerable children to get back to the classroom through the support of therapy dogs.
Sam helped Carlton team up with North Melbourne and fellow cancer survivor, Ben Cunnington, to create the first Good Friday Superclash, ultimately raising more than $200,000 for the Good Friday
Appeal and drawing the biggest crowd attendance in this fixture’s history of 49,062.
Receiving the award, Sam said he was “humbled” and felt blessed to be able to give back to the Peter Mac Foundation in some way.
“These organisations don’t exist without your donations … they make these places work.
“From being on the other side, laying in a hospital bed, it’s not just the money, it’s the emotional support that all of you give.”
He thanked everyone who had supported his journey.
Carlton CEO Brian Cook praised Docherty for his passion to help others.
"Sam is such a selfless and generous person who gives everything to everyone. The way he plays the game is a true reflection of his character – courageous with spirit and heart – and this shines through off the field too," Cook said.
"He's always willing to help and we couldn’t be prouder of what he’s been able to achieve in the community and the positive impact he’s had on so many people. He truly wants to make a difference and we feel very lucky to have Sam at our club."
Docherty will receive $40,000 which will be donated to the charity or community program of his choice.
Now in its 12th year, the prestigious award is presented to the player who has best demonstrated the values of late Melbourne champion and former Demons President, Jim Stynes. The award recognises those who are committed to helping others and making a difference in the community, and the way they represent the game on and off the field.
Fremantle’s Bailey Banfield, Melbourne’s Ben Brown and Sydney’s Harry Cunningham were all finalists for the award and recognised on the night for their significant contribution to the community and their nominated charities.