The West Coast Eagles have joined the #ThrowShade initiative in partnership with Shade Skin Cancer Medicine, delivering professional skin checks to players and staff as part of the club’s ongoing commitment to health, wellbeing, and proactive care.

Both the men’s and women’s teams, along with all staff — from grounds crew to executives — will have access to comprehensive skin checks led by skin cancer doctors. This reflects the club’s core values of care, community, and excellence, ensuring every member of the Eagles family is supported both on and off the field.

Skin cancer remains the most common cancer in Australia, and Western Australia continues to record some of the highest melanoma rates nationwide. Despite this, men are still statistically less likely to book regular skin checks, often delaying action until symptoms appear. For a club whose athletes and staff spend much of their time outdoors, the message is clear, prevention and early detection are essential.

Club Doctor Dr Casey Whife said the program highlights the importance of maintaining player and staff health across all levels of the organisation.

“Our players and staff are regularly exposed to the sun, so ensuring everyone has access to comprehensive skin checks is essential. Early detection makes a huge difference, and this initiative allows us to lead by example — showing that looking after your health should always come first.”

The West Coast Eagles’ proactive approach underscores their dedication to a culture where wellbeing is valued as highly as performance, encouraging others in the community to take the same steps toward prevention and awareness.

To learn more, visit www.shadeskin.com.au.