Werribee’s Michael Hoy was battling one of the most difficult periods of his life when he drove past Whitten Oval one day and a sign for a community health program caught his eye.
The sign was promoting the Western Bulldogs’ Sons of the West program – a 12-week community campaign to encourage men to live healthier, eat better and improve their mental health.
It is based on a program run by English Premier League powerhouse Liverpool.
Having been recently diagnosed with testicular cancer and weighing in at 140 kilograms, which was the heaviest he had ever been, Mr Hoy saw the program as a chance to change his life.
“I knew for a long time that I had to do something, but I kept putting it off,” he said.
“I have always been heavier. But prior to the program, I found out I had testicular cancer. I was off work for four weeks … I am an emotional eater and as soon as I could get up out of bed, I was at the fridge.”
Mr Hoy signed up to be part of the program’s Team Wyndham, led by former Bulldogs player and present Hoppers Crossing Football Club coach Stephen Kretiuk.
Throughout the 12 weeks, the team took part in regular exercise programs and heard from guest speakers who gave them advice on improving their physical and mental health.
Mr Hoy credits the program with making a significant difference to his life.
“I haven’t had soft drink for 10 or 11 weeks and I don’t have junk food,” he said.
“My kids are at an age where they like kicking the footy around and getting out, and now that I am able to do that with them, I feel better.”
Laura Michell
