4th Annual Sideline Cancer Rivalry Game Unites Homer-Center & United to Support Jena Umbel and Honor Rich Hixson

BY: LEANN STEFAN / No Comments

Sideline Cancer Patient Assistance Program

Homer-Center & United High School team up to raise $2600 for local families in need during cancer diagnosis

What began four years ago as a single, emotional moment has grown into a powerful tradition rooted in love, community, and belief. The 4th Annual Sideline Cancer Game between Homer-Center and United High Schools once again proved that this rivalry is about far more than the final score.

The event originally started with a surprise check presented to beloved community member Keith Steiner, and over the years it has evolved into a yearly tradition that unites both school communities to support and honor those battling cancer. Each season, the Sideline Cancer Game serves as a reminder that when communities come together with purpose, the impact reaches far beyond the court.

This year’s game carried special meaning as it took on a new format for the first time. A boys and girls basketball doubleheader was hosted at Homer-Center, bringing even more energy, emotion, and unity into the gym. The night was dedicated to supporting Jena Umbel, who has been courageously battling leukemia for nearly a year, and honoring the life of Rich Hixson, a staple in the local sports community whose legacy continues to inspire so many.

The atmosphere inside the Homer Dome was electric, with a packed crowd and a sense that this night was truly bigger than basketball. The girls game opened the evening with an intense first half, as both teams battled possession by possession. In the second half, United pulled away behind a strong performance from Lilly McGinnis, who led all scorers with 21 points. United secured its third consecutive Sideline Cancer victory over Homer-Center, winning by more than 15 points in front of an energized crowd.

The boys game followed with just as much intensity. Homer-Center came out strong and delivered an early punch, keeping the game tight through the first half. United responded with team basketball in the second half, pushing the pace, knocking down three-pointers, and finding success in transition. The victory kept United undefeated on the season and marked their second straight Sideline Cancer win over Homer-Center, further cementing their status as a tough postseason contender.

With both wins secured, the United girls and boys teams celebrated back-to-back victories and raised the I Can Cup at center court. The celebration was filled with joy and laughter, including a memorable trophy shower for both coaches as players embraced the moment in front of a large road crowd.

Some of the most powerful moments of the night came when the focus shifted away from the scoreboard. In a tradition that began in 2023, the Homer-Center Cheerleaders once again flipped over numbers at center court, revealing $2,400 raised in honor of Rich Hixson and in support of Jena Umbel’s fight against cancer. With a few late donations added, the final total reached $2,600 donated directly to the families. It was a moment that perfectly captured the heart of Sideline Cancer and the generosity of the community.

Events like this do not happen without the dedication of so many people working behind the scenes. Sideline Cancer extends heartfelt gratitude to the teachers, coaches, administrators, athletes, cheerleaders, and fans who continue to make this event a success year after year. Their commitment ensures that the I Can Attitude and Believe Always spirit lives on through action.

Sideline Cancer events are more than fundraisers. They are moments of hope, connection, and impact that remind families facing cancer that they are not alone. If you are interested in hosting a Sideline Cancer game or community event at your school or within your organization, please email Jordan at [email protected] to learn how you can get involved. Together, we can continue to support families, honor legacies, and show that this will always be bigger than the game.