Central Softball’s Sideline Cancer Game Reminds Us That Some Moments Are Bigger Than Sports

Central Softball vs Somerset Softball raise money for local cancer patients

For the third consecutive year, the Central High School Lady Dragons softball team stepped onto the field for something much bigger than a game. Their annual Sideline Cancer Softball Game once again united the Martinsburg community in support of local families facing cancer — this year honoring Jennifer Welsh and Angie Maldonado.

From the moment fans entered the ballpark at Central High School, it was clear this night carried a different kind of energy. Nearly 50 basket raffles lined the event, purple Sideline Cancer merchandise filled the stands, and supporters packed the field with one goal in mind: helping two women in their fight against cancer while reminding them they are not alone.

The Central community has continued to show what makes high school sports so powerful. Over the last three years, nearly $14,000 has been donated to patients within the Central School community through these softball events alone. That impact is life-changing for families navigating treatments, appointments, financial stress, and the emotional toll that cancer brings.

Heading into the matchup, Central battled through a challenging season while continuing to play with heart and resilience. Somerset entered the game with an impressive record and several strong wins of their own, setting the stage for a competitive night under the lights. But as the evening unfolded, everyone in attendance realized the scoreboard would never fully capture what this event truly meant.

The biggest moment of the night came during the bottom of the seventh inning. Central trailed 6-3 when Sofie Maldonado stepped to the plate. For many in attendance, this wasn’t just another at-bat. Sofie was playing for her mother, Angie Maldonado, one of the evening’s honored recipients currently battling cancer.

Then it happened.

Sofie launched a towering shot over the left field fence for her first varsity home run. The crowd erupted. The dugout exploded with emotion. And standing nearby was her mother, Angie, watching one of the most unforgettable moments imaginable unfold right in front of her.

As Sofie rounded the bases, the emotions poured out from everyone who understood the weight of that moment. Mother and daughter embraced beside the dugout while teammates, coaches, family members, and fans fought back tears. It was one of those rare sports moments that transcends wins and losses — a moment about love, strength, resilience, and hope.

For those who witnessed it, it will never be forgotten.

Events like this are exactly what Sideline Cancer is all about: communities rallying together, schools using the platform of sports to support families in need, and reminding cancer patients that an entire community stands beside them.

The event ultimately raised an incredible $4,400 for Jennifer Welsh and Angie Maldonado through basket raffles, 50/50 drawings, donations, and Sideline Cancer merchandise sales. The success of the evening would not have been possible without the dedication of the Central Softball Booster parents, volunteers, student-athletes, coaches, donors, and supporters who worked tirelessly behind the scenes to make the night special. A special thank you goes to Erica and the coalition of Central Softball parents who helped lead the event and make it one of the most impactful nights of the year.

At Sideline Cancer, the mission has always been simple: use the power of sports to help local families battling cancer and remind them to Believe Always. Nights like this are proof that the mission is alive and stronger than ever.

Host a Sideline Cancer Event in Your Community

Sideline Cancer continues to partner with schools and communities across Pennsylvania to host meaningful fundraising events that directly support local cancer patients and their families. Whether it’s a softball game, basketball rivalry, baseball matchup, or community event, every dollar raised stays local and makes a real impact.

If your school, team, or organization would like to host a Sideline Cancer event, reach out today to learn how you can get involved and bring your community together for a cause bigger than sports.

Believe Always 💜

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Hollidaysburg Hosts 12th Annual Sideline Cancer Game — A Night of Faith, Football, and Community

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.

Lycoming vs. Mount Aloysius Volleyball Match Kicks Off Sideline Cancer’s Fall Season

The Fall 2025 Sideline Cancer season started with excitement, energy, and purpose as Lycoming College hosted Mount Aloysius College for the 3rd Annual Sideline Cancer Women’s Volleyball Match.

For the past three years, these two programs have come together to make their rivalry about more than just volleyball—it’s about uniting their teams, schools, and communities in the fight against cancer.

This year’s game was played in support of Jared Skeith, whose daughter is a freshman on the Lycoming College volleyball team. Sideline Cancer merchandise was available at the match, with $5 from every item sold and 100% of all donations going directly to Jared as he continues his battle against cancer.

The match itself was packed with energy from the first serve. After two years of five-set thrillers where Lycoming pulled out the win, Mount Aloysius entered the gym determined to flip the script. And flip it they did—Mount Aloysius came out on fire and never looked back, defeating Lycoming in straight sets. With this victory, Mount Aloysius claimed their very first I Can Cup, narrowing Lycoming’s series lead to 2-1.

Beyond the scoreboard, the event was a success in its true purpose: raising funds and awareness. Together, the teams and their communities raised $800 to support Jared and his family.

Events like this show the power of sports to bring people together, create impact, and spread the Sideline Cancer message of Believe Always and I Can.

Want to Bring Sideline Cancer to Your School?

You can make a difference in your community by hosting a Sideline Cancer event at your high school or college. From volleyball games to basketball showdowns, football rivalries, or softball matchups—any sport can become a platform to raise awareness and funds for cancer patients.

To hold an event at your school, contact Jordan at [email protected].

Together, we can keep building momentum, supporting families, and proving that Sideline Cancer is truly bigger than sports.

Introducing the 2025–2026 Sideline Cancer Logo Design

Every new school year brings with it fresh excitement, meaningful stories, and the unwavering commitment of the Sideline Cancer community to support patients in their fight against cancer. This year, we’re proud to unveil the official 2025–2026 Sideline Cancer t-shirt design—a bold, creative new look featuring our refreshed logo on sleek black apparel.

Captured by @lstefanphotography and modeled by local seniors Clare Padamonsky, Kasen Metzger, Stella Yeskey, and Simon Pierce, this design represents more than just a shirt—it symbolizes hope, unity, and the belief that together, we can make a difference.

Our merchandise is more than just clothing. Each shirt worn in gyms, on fields, and in communities across Pennsylvania and beyond is a statement of support for cancer patients and their families. It’s a reminder that we all stand stronger together with an “I Can Attitude & Believe Always Spirit.”

Fall 2025 Sideline Cancer Events

The new year begins with a powerful lineup of games, all tied together by our mission to provide direct patient assistance.

• Tuesday, September 9th – Lycoming College Volleyball
  The season opens with the 3rd annual “Bigger Than Volleyball” game as Lycoming takes on Mount Aloysius. This game will directly benefit Jared Skeith, whose daughter is part of the Lycoming Volleyball Team.
• Friday, September 19th – Hollidaysburg HS Football
  Hollidaysburg will host its 12th Annual Sideline Cancer Game against Mifflinburg. This year’s support will go to an anonymous patient, who will be surprised with their gift at the end of the 3rd quarter. Since 2022, this game alone has donated nearly $20,000 to local patients.
• Friday, October 3rd – Bellwood-Antis HS Homecoming
  Bellwood-Antis will continue their tradition by hosting the 4th Annual Sideline Cancer Homecoming Gameagainst Bishop Guilfoyle. Since 2022, this event has raised nearly $14,000 for patient assistance.

And this is just the beginning. Across five events this fall, stretching from Central PA to Connecticut, our goal is to raise and donate over $20,000 to individuals and families battling cancer.

Join the Movement

The release of our new 2025–2026 design is more than a style statement—it’s an invitation. We invite you to be part of the story by:

• Attending an upcoming Sideline Cancer event in your community.
• Purchasing and proudly wearing our new gear to spread awareness.
• Hosting an event at your school or organization to directly support patients in need.
• Donating to the Sideline Cancer Patient Assistance Program, which has already provided life-changing support to countless families.

To host an event or learn how you can help, please contact Jordan Griffith at [email protected].

Together, let’s make 2025–2026 a year filled with generosity, community spirit, and hope. Because no one fights alone when we Sideline Cancer.

Sideline Cancer Game at Claysburg-Kimmel Raises $5700 for Cancer Patients

A Night “Bigger Than Basketball”: Claysburg Cheerleaders Reveal $5,700 Raised for Hadley Reed & Anita Martin

Last night, the energy was palpable at Claysburg-Kimmel High School, where the Northern Bedford County Boys and Girls Basketball Teams faced off against their rivals, Claysburg-Kimmel HS, in the highly anticipated 5th installment of their “Bigger Than Basketball” series.

The stands were packed with fans, families, and community members, all united for more than just the love of the game. This was a night to make a difference—a night to show that together, we are stronger.

As the evening unfolded, excitement reached its peak during a heartfelt moment led by the Claysburg-Kimmel Cheer Team. In front of a massive crowd, the cheerleaders revealed an incredible achievement: $5,700 raised to support Hadley Reed, a kindergartener at Foot of Ten Elementary, and Anita Martin, a cherished member of the Northern Bedford community battling cancer.

The funds raised are a testament to the power of teamwork, compassion, and a shared purpose. Behind the scenes, countless individuals contributed to the event’s success. From the teachers, staff, and administration who helped organize, to the Claysburg Girls Basketball Parents who went above and beyond to deliver a first-class experience, everyone played a role in making the evening unforgettable.

This outpouring of generosity didn’t stop at donations. Every ticket purchased, concession bought, and kind gesture helped make a tangible difference in the lives of Hadley and Anita.

Join the Movement

This “Bigger Than Basketball” event is a shining example of how sports can bring communities together to create real change. If you’re inspired by this story and want to host your own event to support local cancer patients, Sideline Cancer is here to help.

Contact Jordan Griffith at [email protected] to learn how you can rally your community and make an impact.

Together, we can continue to show that no battle is fought alone. Let’s keep the spirit alive and prove that life is indeed bigger than basketball.

To host your own Sideline Cancer event contact Jordan – [email protected] 

To see videos and keep up with all the latest Sideline Cancer action follow us on Instagram here :  Sideline Cancer on Instagram

Purchase Line and Marion Center Came Together for a Cause

Bigger Than Basketball: How Purchase Line and Marion Center Came Together for a Cause

On Friday, December 20th, the gymnasium at Purchase Line High School buzzed with excitement and energy. The Purchase Line and Marion Center basketball teams weren’t just battling for victory on the court—they were uniting for something much greater: the first-ever “Bigger Than Basketball Rivalry Game.”

This special event was dedicated to supporting Autumn Raffaele, a nursing student at Indiana University of Pennsylvania (@iupnursing) who has been courageously navigating life’s challenges. The teams and their communities joined forces to raise $1,400 for Autumn, demonstrating the true meaning of teamwork and community spirit.

As the game tipped off, the crowd roared with support, not only for their teams but for the shared purpose of helping someone in need. Led by standout @macie.alex05, Marion Center took home the win and the coveted *I Can Cup,* but the real victory lay beyond the scoreboard. Both teams left the court with their heads held high, knowing they had been part of something bigger than themselves.

It was a night of inspiration, determination, and compassion. The players, coaches, and administrations of both schools showed us all what can happen when sports become a platform for kindness and change.

A heartfelt thank-you goes out to everyone involved in making this event a success. From the dedicated coaches to the school administrations, from the players on the court to the fans in the stands—this night was a testament to what a community can achieve when it comes together for a shared cause.

The *Bigger Than Basketball Rivalry Game* is just one example of how high school sports can make a real difference in the lives of those who need it most. If your school or community is interested in hosting an event like this, Sideline Cancer is here to help!

Contact Jordan Griffith at [email protected] to learn how you can organize a game that’s *bigger than basketball* and bring hope to those in need.

Together, we can continue to show the world that sports have the power to transform lives.

To host your own Sideline Cancer event contact Jordan – [email protected] 

To see videos and keep up with all the latest Sideline Cancer action follow us on Instagram here :  Sideline Cancer on Instagram

Forest Hills vs. Bishop McCort High School raise a record breaking $12500 for 10th grader

Bigger Than Basketball: A Rivalry with Purpose | Forest Hills vs. Bishop McCort High School raise a record breaking $12500 for 10th grader

The gym buzzed with energy as the undefeated Forest Hills Boys Basketball Team, led by standout players Dylan Stohon and Koy McGough, faced off against Bishop McCort in the inaugural “Bigger Than Basketball” rivalry game. This was more than a competition; it was an opportunity to rally for a cause that transcended the court. The proceeds from the game were dedicated to supporting Bishop McCort’s Ansley Stigers, a courageous 10th grader battling health complications.

From the opening tip, the Forest Hills Boys dominated, surging to a 17-4 lead and ultimately securing a commanding 68-38 victory. The win earned Forest Hills the first-ever “I Can Cup,” but the evening’s true triumph was the collective support for Ansley. The crowd’s enthusiasm was matched only by their generosity, with basket raffles and Sideline Cancer gear contributing to the fundraising efforts.

The excitement carried into the next night when the Bishop McCort Lady Crushers hosted the Forest Hills Lady Rangers for Part II of the rivalry. With a packed gym, anticipation built not only for the game but also for the highly anticipated “Number Reveal” at the end of the third quarter. Both teams showcased exceptional talent, with Bishop McCort pulling off an impressive victory and clinching their own “I Can Cup.”

When the number was finally revealed, the gym erupted. The two school communities had raised a record-breaking $12,500 for Ansley Stigers. It was a moment that underscored the power of unity and the impact of coming together for a cause bigger than basketball.

The Bishop McCort and Forest Hills teams proved that rivalries can inspire collaboration and compassion. Their efforts exemplified the mission of Sideline Cancer—to believe in something greater and support those in need.

To host your own Sideline Cancer event contact Jordan – [email protected] 

To see videos and keep up with all the latest Sideline Cancer action follow us on Instagram here :  Sideline Cancer on Instagram