Dig Pink for Breast Cancer
The Lady Celts defeated Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University in bright pink jerseys and flowery pink headbands. The University of St. Thomas volleyball team supported breast cancer awareness month at the second Dig Pink game on Friday, Oct. 23.
The game raised $300 toward breast cancer research. The Lady Celts baked pink homemade goods to sell for donations at the game, and all ticket sales were donated to the cause. The players also decorated the Jerabeck gym with pink balloons and ribbons, and used pink towels throughout the game. They were covered with pink from head to toe with pink jerseys, headbands, nail polish, ribbons and sock, and even the players’ injuries were covered with pink athletic supportive tape.
“We gather as a team to do our part to raise money and support breast cancer in our families and community,” said sophomore volleyball player Catherine Loth.
The $300 went to the Side-Out Foundation in Washington, D.C., which raises money for breast cancer research nationally through college and high school volleyball tournaments, clinics and rallies. This year, 3,000 teams participated throughout the United States
Cancer survivors and their families were honored with pink roses at the game. Toni Crawford was one of those survivors. Crawford, relative of UST sophomore Nicole Hickl, also spoke at the game about her survival story.
“We had a great speaker, who talked about self-exams and regular check-ups not only for women but also men,” said senior volleyball captain Keanne Smith. “Many people are unaware that breast cancer can also affect men. This was an important point for me because my uncle died from breast cancer, and my grandmother had it, too.”
The event was co-sponsored by the UST Health Promotion & Wellness, who provided breast cancer information at the game. Last year, the Lady Celts and Health Promotion & Wellness’s Dig Pink efforts were recognized with the Co-Programming Award at the annual Leadership Awards Banquet.
“The Dig Pink event was a great success as we accomplished all that we set out to do; we raised awareness and funds for breast cancer research,” said Jill Reynolds, head volleyball coach.
Photo Credit: Clifton Wendel
|