Tragic WA talent remembered in EPL
Talented West Australian footballer Dylan Tombides, who died almost a year ago from testicular cancer, has been remembered by his English Premier League club West Ham United with the launch of a foundation in his name.
Players, officials and Tombides' family members lined up at Upton Park before West Ham's 3-1 loss to Crystal Palace for the launch of the DT38 Foundation in memory of the youngster, who died after a three-year battle aged just 20.
Socceroos captain Mile Jedinak, who plays for Palace, also took part in the ceremony.
Fans also remembered the striker with a minute's applause after 38 minutes of the game - his squad number at West Ham.
"Dylan’s considerable legacy is now to be channelled through DT38, a new foundation which is setting out to provide testicular cancer support and awareness through education and opportunity," a statement from West Ham read.
"DT38 becomes the club’s second official charity for the 2014/15 campaign, alongside the West Ham United Moore Family Foundation."
Buckets were taken around the crowd for a collection at Upton Park. Pic: Getty Images
Hammers vice-chairman Karren Brady said the club was proud to get behind the foundation.
“Dylan was a very special young man who had a profound effect on those around him at the club,” she said. “His fortitude in the face of the illness that ultimately took his life was amazing and we’re humbled to be working with DT38 in this way.
“This first year for the foundation is a crucial one and so hopefully the club’s profile will give it the kick-start it needs. It’s astonishing what the Tombides family have achieved in so little time and I’m sure the fans, as they always do, will get right behind what is a truly worthy cause.”
Tombides' mum Tracy spoke of her anguish that her son's death could have been prevented, especially as he was initially misdiagnosed in 2011.
“I’d like to pay a heartfelt thanks to all those at West Ham and the club’s foundation who have offered their time and support to help make this a reality," she said.
"Dylan will forever be at the forefront of our thoughts and so we were determined to honour his memory in a positive, proactive fashion. We really believe that DT38 will save lives.
West Ham manager Sam Alalrdyce, centre, at the foundation launch. Pic: Getty Images
“It breaks our heart to think that this could have been prevented. Had we known about testicular cancer we would have insisted on an ultrasound when we went to the GP. Dylan was robbed of a future that he dreamed of as a young boy. It robbed Taylor of a brother and it robbed my husband and I of watching our beautiful son grow and fulfil his dreams. Please do not let this happen to your son, brother, friend or father.
“The fans have been absolutely amazing with us until now and I ask that they continue to show that same generosity of spirit on Saturday and in the coming weeks and months as we seek to establish DT38. We will always be grateful for your kindness and goodwill.”
Tombides, a former player with Stirling Lions, represented Australia in the FIFA U-17 World Cup in Mexico in 2011, where he memorably sent a birthday message to his mum written on his shin pad after scoring against the Ivory Coast.
Dylan Tombides sends his mum a birthday message from Mexico. Pic: EPA
