Whilst most AFL players plot their off-season holidays around sun, surf and sand, Cats midfielder Mark Blicavs is taking a path much less travelled.

Blicavs and his former schoolmates Luke, Dan and Jason will next week embark on one of the most physically demanding tasks on the planet as they strive to complete the 16 day trek through the Himalayas to the Mt Everest Basecamp.

But this trip isn’t about pleasure. The four men have all had friends and family close to them battle mental health issues, something affecting one in five Australians. 

And to do their bit to support research into mental health, the foursome will be raising money for The Kai Eardley Fund. The foundation was set up in 2016 following the passing of 20-year old Kai Eardley, who’s brother Cam was a past teammate of Blicavs at the Cats.

“The Kai Earley Fund do fantastic work educating and supporting youth in relation to mental health in conjunction with the Man Up campaign,” Blicavs said.

“Everest basecamp is 5,545 meters above sea level, and our goal is to raise $1 for every meter we climb.”

“Even if people want to donate for just one meter, every contribution is greatly appreciated and supports a cause that many people closely associate with.”

For more information on the Kai Eardley Fund click here

To donate to Blicavs and his team click here

If you or someone you know is experiencing personal problems contact Lifeline on 13 11 14