“SEA EAGLES LEGEND DALY CHERRY-EVANS SHOCKS FOOTBALL WORLD WITH $19 MILLION CHARITY PLEDGE ACROSS AUSTRALIA”
Manly Sea Eagles’ legendary captain Daly Cherry-Evans has sent ripples through the football world with an extraordinary and unexpected commitment – officially pledging $19 million to support charities across Australia in what stands as one of the largest individual donations in Australian sport history.
The one-club icon, who has carved out a legendary career in the blue and gold, has long been known for his off-field generosity, but this landmark pledge elevates his philanthropic work to unprecedented heights. Cherry-Evans is a passionate advocate for mental fitness, serving as an ambassador for the Gotcha4Life Foundation. In 2023, he donated his $5,000 Philips Sports Dad of the Year prize – which was matched to $10,000 – to the charity, and has consistently used his platform to raise awareness about mental health.
His community work extends far beyond mental wellness: he supports Bear Cottage, the only children’s hospice in New South Wales, with his Manly teammates regularly joining him to raise funds for the vital service. He also actively participates in Jersey Day, a national campaign that promotes organ donation awareness, using his profile to encourage fans to register as donors.
On the field, Cherry-Evans’ legacy is already etched in Manly folklore. Since making his debut, he has become the club’s most-capped player with over 350 games, captained the side with exceptional leadership, and led them to the 2011 Premiership. He further cemented his status as one of the game’s greats by winning the Clive Churchill Medal in the 2013 Grand Final, adding to a collection of milestones and records that make him arguably the greatest player in Sea Eagles history.
The $19 million pledge, announced today, has shocked fans and fellow athletes alike, highlighting Cherry-Evans’ deep commitment to giving back to the community that has supported him throughout his career. For a player who has always prioritized team success over individual glory, the donation is a powerful reminder that his greatest impact may yet be felt beyond the boundaries of the rugby league field.
