The gym was overflowing, the rivalry was electric, and the purpose was unmistakable as Northern Bedford County School District hosted Claysburg-Kimmel School District for the 5th Annual Sideline Cancer Girls & Boys Basketball Doubleheader. What unfolded that night was far more than competition — it was a powerful example of two communities uniting to support Bill Imler and Mike Dibert as they battle cancer with an “I Can Attitude & Believe Always Spirit.”
From the moment doors opened, supporters showed up ready to give. Over 100 themed baskets filled the gym for the silent auction, while concessions, 50/50 drawings, Sideline Cancer merchandise, and online donations steadily built momentum. Every ticket purchased and every dollar donated reflected neighbors rallying around neighbors during life’s hardest moments.
Girls Game: Northern Bedford Reclaims the I Can Cup
The Northern Bedford girls came in with confidence and delivered a commanding performance. In front of a sellout crowd, they put on a clinic against their rivals, reclaiming the I Can Cup after falling short last year. The gym erupted with every basket, defensive stand, and momentum swing as the home crowd fueled the victory. It was a proud moment in the rivalry — and an emotional lift for a night centered on something greater than wins and losses.
Boys Game: Claysburg-Kimmel Extends Their Streak
The intensity carried straight into the boys matchup. Claysburg-Kimmel, riding an impressive season, met the challenge of a hostile, high-energy environment. A standout performance helped secure their third straight I Can Cup victory, showcasing teamwork, composure, and resilience in front of a roaring crowd. Every possession felt monumental, reminding everyone why this rivalry consistently delivers unforgettable moments.
A Record-Breaking Night of Generosity
As thrilling as the basketball was, the biggest victory came after the final buzzer.
When fundraising totals were revealed, the crowd erupted: $13,000 raised in a single night, with whispers that the final number could approach $15,000. The funds came from basket raffles, concessions, 50/50 drawings, Sideline Cancer merchandise, and online donations — all directed toward supporting Bill Imler and Mike Dibert.
This milestone continues a remarkable history of Sideline Cancer communities using sports as a force for compassion:
- Hollidaysburg (8/22): $4,000
- Bishop Carroll & Central Cambria (1/23): $10,000
- Northern Bedford & Claysburg (1/24): $12,000
- Bishop McCort & Forest Hills (12/24): $12,500
- Northern Bedford & Claysburg (2/26): ~$15,000
Each step forward represents communities transforming rivalry into unity for a cause that truly matters.
Love Lives On
Beyond the numbers, the emotional heartbeat of the night lingered long after the final whistle.
Sideline Cancer President Cathy Griffith shared that as she walked out of the gym, she felt something deeply spiritual — a reminder of a promise her late husband Greg once made: that love lives on. In that packed gym, it felt undeniable. The compassion, faith, and generosity in the room reflected a shared belief that those we love never truly leave us — they walk beside us through every act of kindness and courage.
That presence was especially felt through the legacy of Quinton Morrow. His courageous fight against ATRT continues to inspire hope through the work of the The Quinton Morrow Memorial Foundation, created by his family to serve others facing cancer. Throughout the evening, Quinton’s spirit was evident in the unity of both school communities and the overwhelming support directed toward local families in need. His legacy — and the love surrounding it — was already at work, helping Bill Imler and Mike Dibert through the Sideline Cancer Patient Assistance Program.
The night became a living reminder that rivalry can pause, hearts can open, and a community can come together in a way that transcends sport. Records were broken, cups were won, but the true victory was the shared belief that compassion, remembrance, and love continue to ripple outward — always and forever.
Special thanks go to the countless volunteers, organizers, students, supporters, and community leaders — especially Mrs. Horsch — whose tireless work helped make this historic night possible.
If your school or community wants to host a Sideline Cancer event and create an impact like this, reach out to Jordan at [email protected]. Together, we can keep turning games into life-changing moments.
Believe Always. Together We Can.
Check out the highlights on Facebook here : Sideline Cancer | Northern Bedford vs Claysburg Highlights
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