Some games are about much more than the final score. The 4th Annual Sideline Cancer Softball Game between Altoona and Hollidaysburg was one of those unforgettable nights — a night filled with community, compassion, memories, and support for a family facing the heartbreak of cancer loss.
Held at Logan Elementary in Altoona, this special rivalry matchup brought two communities together to honor the life of Donald “Peep” Free, who recently passed away from Pancreatic Cancer. While the game itself featured exciting softball and plenty of energy from both teams, the true focus of the evening was supporting the Free family and reminding them they are not alone.
Fans filled the stands wearing purple, purchasing basket raffle tickets, cheering loudly, and showing what the Sideline Cancer mission is all about — communities rallying together with an “I Can Attitude & Believe Always Spirit.” Every basket raffle donation and contribution throughout the evening went directly toward supporting the Free family, turning a softball field into a place of hope, love, and encouragement.
Coming into the game, Altoona was building momentum after a strong win over Cedar Cliff and looked determined to capture the I Can Cup for the first time. Hollidaysburg entered the matchup hoping to defend their streak after winning the cup the previous three years.
When the first inning began, Altoona’s bats came alive in a big way. The Lady Lions jumped out early and never looked back, powering their way to a 20-5 victory to claim this year’s Sideline Cancer Game and bring home the I Can Cup. While the scoreboard reflected a big win for Altoona, the night itself was a victory for everyone involved.
Most importantly, the event raised $1,650 for the Free family in memory of Donald “Peep” Free. The generosity shown by both school communities once again proved how powerful sports can be when people come together for something bigger than softball.
The energy from both teams, the support from the fans, and the willingness of the community to rally around a local family in need made this another incredible chapter in the Sideline Cancer story. Events like these are a reminder that even through loss, love and community continue to shine brightly.
Thank you to everyone who donated, attended, organized basket raffles, played, coached, and supported this special evening. Your kindness helped honor Donald “Peep” Free’s memory in a meaningful and lasting way.
Interested in Hosting a Sideline Cancer Event?
Sideline Cancer partners with schools and communities to create impactful fundraising events that support local cancer patients and families. Whether it’s softball, basketball, football, wrestling, or another sport, these events become something much bigger than the game itself.
To learn more about hosting a Sideline Cancer event at your school or in your community, reach out to Jordan Griffith and the Sideline Cancer team today.
Believe Always 💜
TO DONATE
DIRECT ON WESITE : DONATE TO SIDELINE CANCER
VEMNO | @gff-sidelinecancer : DONATE TO SIDELINE CANCER | VENMO
TEXT TO GIVE TO 44321 : TYPE SIDELINE CANCER AND TEXT TO 44321
