Ober-Mörlen’s Ü-60 Men Collect Donations
- OBER-MÖRLEN, Germany (AP) — A team of former international tennis stars is leveraging their athletic prowess to raise awareness about cancer prevention and early detection.
- The Ober-Mörler Tennis Club (OMTC), comprised of seasoned players over 60, has launched "Surcharge Against Cancer," an initiative aimed at using their platform to promote health education and...
- While athletic conditioning offers no immunity to life-threatening illnesses, the team emphasizes that early detection and a proactive approach to health can significantly improve outcomes.
Tennis Pros Serve Up Awareness in Cancer Campaign
OBER-MÖRLEN, Germany (AP) — A team of former international tennis stars is leveraging their athletic prowess to raise awareness about cancer prevention and early detection.
The Ober-Mörler Tennis Club (OMTC), comprised of seasoned players over 60, has launched “Surcharge Against Cancer,” an initiative aimed at using their platform to promote health education and support cancer aid.
An Ace Against Adversity
While athletic conditioning offers no immunity to life-threatening illnesses, the team emphasizes that early detection and a proactive approach to health can significantly improve outcomes. Their campaign seeks to break the silence surrounding cancer and encourage regular check-ups,physical activity,and mental well-being.
Messages of Hope and Action
“There’s been a reluctance to openly discuss cancer, which needs to change,” says George Pascal, OMTC board member and team leader. “We want to emphasize the importance of regular screenings, staying active, and not hiding if you are diagnosed. Thes are the messages we want to share at every chance.”
The team gained prominence after winning the Southwest Master title, qualifying for the German championship finals. Even though they finished third, their participation generated critically important attention and funds for their cancer campaign.
The team has organized auctions and sought donations for German cancer Aid, enlisting support from sports figures like Björn Borg and Timo Boll, facilitated by Pascal’s marketing connections.
While their current fundraising total of 6,000 euros is modest compared to the 300,000 euros raised by German golfers for the same cause, Pascal aims to expand their efforts. he hopes to emulate the success of the golf initiative, which has amassed over eight million euros as 1982 through sponsorships and tournament fees.
Nomination for German Brand Award
The “Surcharge Against Cancer” initiative has been nominated for the German Brand Award 2025,a recognition that Pascal says provides significant momentum. A donation website has been set up to facilitate contributions.
Personal Battles and Triumphs
The campaign’s authenticity is strengthened by Constantinos effraimoglou, a Davis Cup veteran for Greece, who overcame a rare form of leukemia. After a year of treatment, he returned to tennis and achieved an undefeated record with the OMTC seniors. “I might not be here without tennis,” Effraimoglou stated.
This season, Effraimoglou ranks third in the team, joined by new top players Gianluca Pozzi, one of the few players with a winning record against Roger Federer, and Argentinian marcelo Ingaramo, formerly ranked 67th in the world.
A blend of Ambition and Duty
“After pursuing other careers, the players felt the competitive spark reignite,” Pascal explains. “We aim to combine athletic ambition with social responsibility.”
Looking Ahead
Pascal envisions a future where the Ober-Mörler TC hosts and wins the Bundesliga finals,using the event to galvanize support from other clubs and tennis organizations for cancer aid. However,he acknowledges that balancing competitive play with health is crucial: “Playing too much isn’t healthy either.”
Tennis Stars Rally for Cancer awareness: Q&A
Q: What is the “Surcharge Against Cancer” initiative?
A: The “Surcharge Against Cancer” initiative is a campaign launched by the Ober-Mörler Tennis Club (OMTC), comprised of tennis players over 60, to raise awareness about cancer prevention and early detection. They aim to use their platform to promote health education and support cancer aid.
Q: What is the primary goal of the “Surcharge Against Cancer” campaign?
A: The primary goal is to leverage the players’ platform to promote health education and support cancer aid. the campaign emphasizes the importance of early detection, a proactive approach to health, regular screenings, and a healthy lifestyle.
Q: How are the tennis players involved in this cancer awareness campaign?
A: The players, former international tennis stars, are using their athletic success to bring attention to the cause. The team won the Southwest Master title and qualified for the German championship finals. They are also organizing auctions and seeking donations. Furthermore, they hope to encourage discussions about cancer.
Q: what specific messages does the campaign promote?
A: The campaign focuses on several key messages, as shared by OMTC board member and team leader George Pascal:
the importance of regular screenings.
Staying active.
The need to be open about cancer, not hiding a diagnosis.
Q: Who is behind this initiative?
A: The initiative is spearheaded by the Ober-Mörler Tennis Club (OMTC). George Pascal, an OMTC board member and team leader, is notably involved in the campaign.
Q: How is the campaign raising funds for cancer aid?
A: The team is organizing auctions and seeking donations for German Cancer Aid. Support from well-known sports figures,such as Björn Borg and Timo Boll,has been enlisted thru Pascal’s marketing connections.The team also has a donation website to facilitate contributions.
Q: How successful has the fundraising been so far?
A: The “Surcharge Against Cancer” initiative has raised 6,000 euros.
Q: Is the initiative nominated for any awards?
A: Yes, the initiative has been nominated for the German Brand Award 2025.
Q: How does personal experience influence this initiative?
A: The campaign is made more impactful by the personal story of Constantinos Effraimoglou, a Davis Cup veteran for Greece, who overcame a rare form of leukemia. His experience adds authenticity to the initiative.
Q: What are some of the tennis players involved in the team?
A: Besides Constantinos Effraimoglou, some other notable players include:
Gianluca Pozzi
* Marcelo Ingaramo
Q: What is the team’s broader vision for the future?
A: Pascal envisions a future where the ober-Mörler TC hosts and wins the Bundesliga finals, using the event to galvanize support from other clubs and tennis organizations for cancer aid. However, he also emphasizes the importance of balancing competitive play with health and the need for balance.