Rugby for Research: First "BIG Tackle Against Breast Cancer" Supports Optima-young Study

On 14 June 2025, the ROC Ottignies Rugby Club hosted the first-ever women's rugby tournament in support of breast cancer research, organised by BIG against breast cancer. The event brought together teams from across Belgium for a day of sport, solidarity, and fundraising—with all proceeds going toward the Optima-young study, part of the Path4Young project.

Despite changing weather, the enthusiasm on the pitch never faded. Players showed strength and resilience—qualities mirrored in the young women at the heart of this research.

French rugby star Joanna Grisez, patron of the event, spoke about the shared values between rugby and the fight against breast cancer: “We need resilience and fighting spirit, and these things are directly connected with women who have to fight against this disease.”
Prof. Hans Wildiers (BIG) and Aure Vanhecke (Unicancer) addressed the crowd, emphasizing the importance of personalized treatment for young women. Aure explained how Optima-young aims to reduce unnecessary chemotherapy while maintaining effective care, supported by international collaboration and EU funding.

Thank you to all players, partners, and supporters who made this event a success. This involvement helps driving real progress in personalised breast cancer care for young women.