The lights were bright, the crowd was loud, and the spirit of Believe Always was alive and well at Tiger Stadium as Hollidaysburg hosted the 12th Annual Sideline Cancer Game. What began as a local fundraiser over a decade ago has grown into a powerful community tradition — one that unites players, students, and fans to support those battling cancer. This year’s event delivered everything — an exciting matchup, a heartwarming surprise, and a night filled with hope and hometown pride.
Believe Always.
Under the bright lights of Tiger Stadium, the Hollidaysburg community once again came together for one of the most anticipated games of the season — the 12th Annual Sideline Cancer Game, featuring Hollidaysburg vs. state-ranked Mifflinburg.
This annual tradition runs deep in Hollidaysburg, the birthplace of Sideline Cancer, and every year, it’s more than just football — it’s a night of unity, hope, and giving back. Over the past three years alone, nearly $20,000 has been donated through this event to support members of the Hollidaysburg community battling cancer.
This year, the Golden Tigers entered the game undefeated at 4-0, led by a dominant ground attack from RB Carter Muthand QB Cole DeLattre. Their opponents from Mifflinburg, also undefeated, brought a high-powered offense led by standout quarterback Chad Martin. The stage was set for one of the most exciting Sideline Cancer Games in Pennsylvania.
As the third quarter came to a close, an unforgettable moment unfolded. Announcer Mike Harris took the mic and made an announcement that would send waves of emotion through the crowd — beloved Hollidaysburg Area School District teacher and cancer survivor, Christine Burkey, was this year’s Sideline Cancer Game recipient!
Just ten months earlier, Mrs. Burkey had been diagnosed with cancer. Today, she is officially cancer-free. A group of her fellow teachers and students wanted to make this moment extra special, keeping the entire plan a complete secret until the big reveal.
As the @hburg_cheerleaders flipped the final total — $5,760 raised — the stadium erupted in cheers, the student section went wild, and tears of joy filled the stands. It was truly one of the most emotional and inspiring moments in Sideline Cancer history — a perfect example of what it means to Believe Always.
On the field, the Golden Tigers played with unmatched heart, delivering a 49-14 victory over Mifflinburg. The team excelled in all phases of the game — forcing turnovers on defense, moving the ball efficiently on offense, and controlling every moment of the night.
Junior RB Carter Muth shined with 172 rushing yards, 2 touchdowns, and an 85-yard kickoff return, while Cole DeLattre and Josh Banks added multiple touchdowns of their own. The defense came up big with four forced turnovers, including an interception by Carter McCrystal and three sacks by Joey Keefer.
And while there were many deserving players for the coveted “I Can Cup”, the team decided the true honor should go to Mrs. Burkey — a moment that brought the entire stadium to its feet. As she raised the “I Can Cup” and took her victory sip, it was clear — this night was about far more than football. It was about faith, resilience, and the power of community.
For 12 years, Hollidaysburg has continued to lead the Sideline Cancer movement, showing what can happen when a community rallies around a cause bigger than the game. The 12th Annual Sideline Cancer Game was a perfect reminder that together, we can make a difference — one game, one story, one life at a time.
Believe Always.
If you’d like to host a Sideline Cancer Game or event in your community, please contact Jordan Griffith at [email protected].
And be sure to follow along on Instagram@sideline.cancer to see the photos and videos from this unforgettable night at Tiger Stadium.
