But this year the tables have turned, with the whole club rallying behind 28-year-old Josh as he battles one of the toughest opponents he's ever faced.

After being rushed to the Albury Base Hospital in May to treat a blood clot in his leg, it was discovered Josh had testicular cancer.

Since then he has undergone two emergency surgeries and continues to battle health complications.

Hearing about what one of their own was going through, the Bulldogs decided to lend a helping hand and have managed to raise almost $12000 for the family in just two weeks via a GoFundMe page.

Tom Rake, who met Josh while playing junior football at the club around 15-years ago, has now pledged to lose his trademark dreadlocks next month in what the club has coined 'Shave for Smithy.'

"There's no better reason than to do it and support Josh and the family," Rake said.

"It was a no-brainer."

Josh will get the honour of removing Rake's hair, which has been almost six years in the making.

Most people at Thurgoona will know Josh as the club's water boy, often tending to the hydration needs of both the footballers and netballers on game day.

He's also the first one they call when in need of a lift.

Thurgoona's senior co-coach Daniel Cleary admitted the show of support has been phenomenal.

"Anyone who's come in and played footy at the club will have had an experience with Josh along the way," Cleary said.

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"In such a difficult year that's been tough for everyone, it's unbelievable to see that people are still willing to jump onboard and show their support."

"It's a real testament to the community, especially out here, that everyone has jumped on board as much as they have."

Josh said it's been a "surreal feeling" seeing the club get behind him.

"It's good to know they're there," he said.

His father Bill admitted he and wife Jennie have been humbled by the response.

"It's really taken us aback," Bill said.

"It's a testament to the club that they keep rallying around people."

Bill hopes Josh's story might help to raise awareness for testicular cancer and prompt more men to get checked for the disease.

"Josh didn't even know that he had it," Bill said.

"If you go in for a test and they don't check you for testicular cancer, ask them if they'd mind checking.

"It's the same old man story, but it's just a simple question."

The club has now raised their fundraising target to $20000 and will hold a cricket day to coincide with the Shave for Smithy on November 15.