MANNHEIM – Andreas Engqvist and Christian Backman are two of several Swedes who are taking part in a unique campaign to raise money for prostate cancer in their homeland. They are part of a competition for the best moustache in the country. Fans can vote for their choice and donate money to the charitable cause at the same time.

“I’m not so pleased with mine,” Engqvist said with a laugh of his efforts, which began with the start of the World Championship. “But it’s for a good cause. Prostate cancer is the most common kind of cancer in Sweden, so this helps draw awareness to it. People all over Sweden grow moustaches. I like the idea. It’s fun.”

This is the third year the competition has taken place, and momentum is growing. Swedes now know that in May, growing moustaches isn’t just a fad – it’s a reminder of a serious and often deadly illness. “We have Erik Karlsson and a bunch of others doing it as well, Engqvist said. “Anything we can do to help is fantastic.”

“This is the first time for me,” Backman said. “A few guys on the team were asked if they wanted to do it, and of course we said yes. It’s a good thing. I don’t know if I look that good in it, but it’s for a good cause.”

Players love to be humble but they also love a good sense of humour, which also helps promote the cause. So, who on Tre Kronor is winning the competition to date? “I’m pretty impressed with Sanny Lindström’s,” Backman revealed. “He hasn’t played in the tournament yet, but he has a pretty good moustache.”

At the end of the day, it’s all about one thing – beating a deadly disease. “They hope to raise a lot of money for research and awareness, and if we can help, that’s great,” Backman said. The winner will be determined at the end of the World Championship.

ANDREW PODNIEKS