Forest Hills vs Bishop McCort Basketball Rivalry raises $3,500 for Local Cancer Patients

BY: LEANN STEFAN / No Comments

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What started as a basketball rivalry once again became something far greater at Forest Hills High School as Forest Hills and Bishop McCort came together for their second consecutive “Bigger Than Basketball” Sideline Cancer event. For the second year in a row, these two programs proved that when sports and community unite, real impact happens.

This year’s event supported Forest Hills 10th grader Michael Boyle, who was diagnosed earlier this school year with lymphoma. After a courageous two-month battle, Michael recently rang the bell, officially defeating cancer and entering remission. His strength and perseverance were celebrated throughout the night, reminding everyone in attendance exactly why Sideline Cancer exists.

The momentum for this event began back in October when an idea was brought forward for an early Sideline Cancer apparel sale in Michael’s honor. Featuring a special design reading “We Play 4 Michael Boyle” beneath the Sideline Cancer logo, the early sale raised $2,000, with supporters receiving their shirts ahead of Thanksgiving break. That early outpouring of support set the tone for what would become an unforgettable week of games and giving.

On the court, the Forest Hills boys team delivered a dominant performance, defeating Bishop McCort 83–61. Senior guard Koy McGough led the way, scoring 19 of his 22 points in the first half and finishing with an all-around performance that showcased his leadership and talent. Dylan Stohon also had a standout night, stuffing the stat sheet with 17 points, double-digit rebounds, and multiple blocks and steals. Bishop McCort was led by Nick Dressick, who poured in 24 points and knocked down several tough three-pointers in a strong effort for the Crusaders.

The impact extended beyond the boys game as the girls programs took center stage at Bishop McCort. In one of the best-played games of the Sideline Cancer season, the Forest Hills Lady Rangers earned a 72–59 victory to capture the I Can Cup. The night was especially memorable as Aviah Maul reached the 1,000-point milestone in her high school career, scoring nearly 30 points in a performance fueled by both talent and heart.

Despite difficult weather conditions and emotional circumstances within the Johnstown basketball community, both schools rallied together in the true spirit of philanthropy. In total, the Sideline Cancer events between Forest Hills and Bishop McCort raised $3,500 this year—$2,000 directly supporting Michael Boyle and an additional $1,500 establishing a Patient Assistance Account. This account will allow Sideline Cancer to quickly provide financial support if someone in either school community is diagnosed with cancer in the future.

Since the first Sideline Cancer Game between Forest Hills and Bishop McCort, these matchups have now generated nearly $22,000 in donations, setting an incredible example of what is possible when schools embrace the Sideline Cancer mission. From administrators and teachers to coaches, players, and community members, this event continues to be a testament to what it means to live out the “I Can Attitude & Believe Always Spirit.”

Sideline Cancer is honored to serve communities like Forest Hills and Bishop McCort, where sports are used as a platform for hope, generosity, and support when it matters most.

If you are interested in hosting a Sideline Cancer event at your school or learning more about how your community can get involved, please reach out to Jordan Griffith at [email protected].