Pies Legend Anthony Rocca Marks Cancer Remission Surrounded by ‘Proud’ Brother Sav and a Bottle of Bubbles

Collingwood legend Anthony Rocca has celebrated a touching moment with his brother Sav, who is also a former AFL star, toasting to his remission after battling cancer.

Rocca received a diagnosis of non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma – a form of cancer originating in the lymphatic system – in July of the previous year.

After providing a positive update on his health in December, he’s now taken to social media once more to share his joy.

The Rocca brothers uncorked a special bottle of Champagne, gifted to Sav by Anthony nearly 20 years ago when he signed with an NFL team.

“Anthony bought me this bottle of Champagne Pol Roger when I signed with the Philadelphia Eagles in 2007. Tonight, we opened it to celebrate his official remission!” Sav expressed on Instagram.

“I’m so proud of Anth for his resilience and positive outlook throughout this journey. Love you, bro,” Sav declared.

Anthony, who played 242 matches for both the Pies and Swans, resignsed from his coaching position with the Northern Knights under 18s following his initial cancer diagnosis in July 2024.

Former teammates and adversaries expressed their happiness at the announcement of Rocca’s remission.

“Fantastic news,” commented Carlton champ Anthony Koutoufides on Instagram.

Collingwood’s goalkicking ace Travis Cloke shared a heart emoji in support.

In December, Rocca revealed that he would require an additional two years of maintenance chemotherapy.

Throughout his career, Rocca played 220 of his 242 matches with Collingwood, with the remaining 22 at Sydney.