Homer-Center and United HS Raise $2,400 for Kristie Voyda, Boys & Girls Exchange Trophies, Max Voyda Dominates!

A remarkable story unfolded on the basketball courts of Homer-Center and United High Schools in Pennsylvania. For the second consecutive year, these schools came together not just for a game, but for a cause greater than themselves: Sideline Cancer. Last year’s inaugural event set the stage, with the Homer-Center Girls and United Boys emerging victorious, rallying behind Keith Steiner, a custodian at United HS battling pancreatic cancer. The unity and camaraderie displayed on and off the court were truly inspiring.

This year, the narrative took a new turn as the Sideline Cancer Games resumed. The atmosphere crackled with anticipation as players, coaches, and supporters gathered to witness the clash of titans. On the court, the United Girls Basketball Team, led by the formidable Mollee Fry, showcased their skill and determination, securing a resounding 54-29 victory over Homer-Center. Their triumph spoke not only of athletic prowess but also of compassion and solidarity, as they played for a cause dear to their hearts.

Meanwhile, on the boys’ side, Homer-Center sought redemption from last year’s defeat. Led by the talented Max Voyda, they faced off against United with a fierce determination. Max’s performance was nothing short of spectacular, as he poured in 17 points to lead his team to victory. But Max’s victory held a deeper significance; he was playing not just for his team but for his mother, Kristie Voyda, who is currently battling breast cancer. As the final buzzer sounded, the emotions ran high, for Max’s triumph on the court symbolized hope and resilience in the face of adversity.

As the dust settled and the crowd dispersed, the true impact of the Sideline Cancer Games became apparent. While the wins and losses were significant, it was the spirit of community and generosity that shone brightest. This year’s game raised an astounding $2,400 for Kristie Voyda through the Sideline Cancer Patient Assistance Program. This substantial contribution will provide much-needed support to Kristie and others like her, offering hope and comfort in their darkest moments.

The Sideline Cancer Games between Homer-Center and United High Schools serve as a powerful reminder of the transformative power of sports. Beyond the cheers and celebrations, these games are a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the capacity for kindness and compassion. As the legacy of these games continues to grow, so too does the impact they have on individuals and families battling cancer. In the end, it’s not about the scoreline but the lives touched and the bonds forged in the pursuit of a common goal—together, we can make a difference.

To host a Sideline Cancer Event click here : HOST A SIDELINE CANCER EVENT 

To show your support and help raise awareness you can purchase your Sideline Cancer apparel here : Sideline Cancer 

Follow Sideline Cancer on Instagram here : @sidelinecancer

To learn more about Breast Cancer visit : Breast Cancer Research Foundation

Bishop Carroll and Central Cambria Raise $6,000, BC Repeats & Showers Coach with The Cup

In the small town of Ebensburg, Pennsylvania, Sideline Cancer’s Rivalry Week unfolded with an emotional twist during the second clash between Bishop Carroll and Central Cambria girls’ basketball teams. The echoes of cheers and the squeak of sneakers on the court were not just sounds of a game but a chorus of support for a noble cause.

As the anticipation built up in Bishop Carroll Gymnasium on Friday, January 12th, Central Cambria entered the game as the heavy favorites. The rivalry was fierce, and the air was charged with excitement. However, the young Bishop Carroll Huskies had their own plans. In a stunning turn of events, they came back from an 8-point deficit in the 4th Quarter, securing an improbable victory.

The defining moments were etched in the minds of all who witnessed it — Ava Pablic’s nerve-wracking free throws and Tatum Laughard’s fearless plays down the stretch. The underdogs had triumphed, and the celebration began.

In the jubilant aftermath, Bishop Carroll not only clinched the victory but also retained the coveted I Can Cup. The trophy, a symbol of resilience and unity, was proudly displayed. Yet, the celebration reached new heights when the first-year coach, Erika Stittmeyer, found herself showered with the trophy—an unexpected and heartwarming moment that added a touch of magic to the night.

But this wasn’t just any game. It was a game with a profound purpose. The spotlight shifted to Ava Pablic’s Aunt, Tara Hillegass, bravely battling triple-negative breast cancer. The event wasn’t just about points on the scoreboard; it was a rallying cry for support and solidarity. The gymnasium was filled with a shared determination to make a difference.

The community responded with unwavering generosity, raising an impressive $6,000 during the event. These funds were not just numbers; they were a lifeline for Tara in her fight against cancer. The community’s commitment was tangible—a powerful testament to the impact that can be made when people come together for a cause.

As the cheers quieted and the gymnasium emptied, the commitment to the cause didn’t waver. The story continues with Part II of this heartfelt rivalry at Central Cambria on Tuesday, January 16th, where the boys’ teams will take center stage. Beyond the basketball court, the community remains united, ensuring that every dribble, every shot, and every cheer contributes to Tara Hillegass’s ongoing battle against cancer.

In the heart of this intense rivalry, a story unfolded—a story of triumph, unity, and compassion that goes far beyond the boundaries of a basketball court. In Ebensburg, victory wasn’t just measured in points; it was measured in the collective strength of a community coming together for a cause that truly matters.

To host a Sideline Cancer Event click here : HOST A SIDELINE CANCER EVENT 

To show your support and help raise awareness you can purchase your Sideline Cancer apparel here : Sideline Cancer 

Follow Sideline Cancer on Instagram here : @sidelinecancer

To learn more about Triple-negative Breast Cancer visit : The American Cancer Society

Sideline Cancer’s Rivalry Week Begins with Claysburg v Northern Bedford Boys & Girls, Netting $12,000 for Morrow & Helsel Family

Sideline Cancer kicked off its inaugural “Rivalry Week” with an electrifying clash between Claysburg and Northern Bedford County, setting the stage for a series of thrilling matchups aimed at supporting cancer patients. The 10-day event promised intense competition and a shared commitment to making a difference in the lives of those battling cancer.

In the opening game, the Northern Bedford girls demonstrated a relentless spirit, securing a commanding 20-point victory over Claysburg. Their triumph not only earned them the title but also marked the crowning moment of the 1st I Can Cup in the girls’ series.

On the boys’ side, Claysburg fought fiercely to reclaim the trophy that had eluded them in the previous year. The victory celebration was nothing short of euphoric, as the boys showered Head Coach Mike Harris with elation. The atmosphere was charged with excitement, reflecting the team’s passion and determination.

However, beyond the intense competition on the court, the highlight of the event was the overwhelming support from the community. The game raised a staggering $12,000, a testament to the collective effort to make a meaningful impact. The generous contribution was dedicated to the Morrow and Helsel family, with a special mention of Olivia Helsel, who played a pivotal role in the girls’ game.

Amid the jubilation and cheers, Coach Harris, soaked from the impromptu celebration, passionately addressed the camera, shouting, “$12,000, $12,000!” His words echoed the significance of the fundraising efforts and the community’s commitment to Sideline Cancer’s noble cause.

Even in the face of defeat, Northern Bedford’s boys’ team emerged as winners off the court. The community showcased its unwavering “I Can Attitude” and “Believe Always Spirit” in front of a sold-out crowd at NB High School. The event transcended the boundaries of competition, uniting everyone in a shared mission to support cancer patients and their families.

Sideline Cancer’s Rivalry Week had not just begun with a basketball game; it had ignited a flame of compassion, unity, and hope that would continue to burn brightly throughout the remaining rivalries, embodying the true spirit of sportsmanship and philanthropy.

To host a Sideline Cancer Event click here : HOST A SIDELINE CANCER EVENT 

To show your support and help raise awareness you can purchase your Sideline Cancer apparel here : Sideline Cancer 

Follow Sideline Cancer on Instagram here : @sidelinecancer

After a 3-Year Covid Break, Sideline Cancer Returns to Saint Francis University, Raises $3,400 for Evan Sanders on National TV

After a three-year hiatus due to the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, Sideline Cancer, the non-profit organization dedicated to raising funds for cancer patients, made a triumphant return to the spotlight. Their recent event, a “Bigger Than Football” game at SFU, marked a significant moment in the organization’s history, raising $3,400 for Evan Sanders, a student at the university battling Leukemia. This heartwarming initiative took center stage on National Television, with CBS Sports Network broadcasting the game, a historic first for SFU Football.

The wheels were set in motion shortly after the intense Hollidaysburg v. Altoona Rivalry Game. QB Cole Doyle, a Walter Payton Finalist in 2022 and a key figure in Sideline Cancer, reached out to the organization with a unique proposition. He wanted to organize a special game at SFU, not just for the love of football, but to support a fellow student, Evan Sanders, who was courageously facing the challenges of Leukemia.

On October 12th, the much-anticipated “Bigger Than Football” game unfolded at SFU, making history as the FIRST National TV Game in SFU Football History. CBS Sports Network provided extensive coverage, shedding light on Sideline Cancer’s mission and Evan Sanders’ journey during the entire third quarter of the game.

The event was not just a showcase of athleticism; it was a powerful demonstration of community support. A remarkable $3,400 was raised during the game, with the sole purpose of providing financial assistance to the Sanders Family as they navigated the complexities of Evan’s medical journey. The outpouring of generosity from the community exemplified the true spirit of Sideline Cancer and its commitment to making a positive impact.

In the post-game interview, QB Cole Doyle expressed the sentiment that echoed through the hearts of everyone involved: “Tonight was for Evan.” This profound dedication illustrated the unity and compassion that football, as a sport, can foster. SFU emerged victorious over Wagner University, but the real triumph of the night was the collective effort to support Evan Sanders in his fight against Leukemia.

Adding a touch of lightheartedness to the poignant occasion, QB Cole Doyle marked the victory by chugging from the iconic “I Can Cup.” This symbolic gesture not only celebrated the triumph on the football field but also encapsulated the resilience and camaraderie that define Sideline Cancer’s mission.

The return of Sideline Cancer to SFU after a prolonged hiatus was not just a game; it was a testament to the strength of community, compassion, and the indomitable human spirit.

To host a Sideline Cancer Event click here : HOST A SIDELINE CANCER EVENT 

To show your support and help raise awareness you can purchase your Sideline Cancer apparel here : Sideline Cancer 

Follow Sideline Cancer on Instagram here : @sidelinecancer

Rivalry Football Game Raises $7,400 for Patients, Hollidaysburg Wins, Sideline Cancer Celebrates a Decade!

In a poignant celebration of a decade of dedicated service, Sideline Cancer recently marked the 10th anniversary of their impactful “Sideline Cancer Games” at Hollidaysburg High School. This year’s event, however, held a special significance as it was integrated into the much-anticipated Rivalry Game against Altoona, breaking new ground for the organization.

The Sideline Cancer Games have become synonymous with hope and community support over the years. As they celebrated their 10th year, the commitment to their mission was evident in the collective effort to make a difference in the lives of those affected by cancer.

This marked the first time that Sideline Cancer joined forces with the longstanding Rivalry Game against Altoona, creating an intersection of sportsmanship and philanthropy that would define the event. The fusion of the two events elevated the excitement and purpose, bringing together the community for a greater cause.

In a remarkable show of generosity, the community nearly doubled last year’s fundraising total, contributing an impressive $7,400. This substantial amount was then distributed to two deserving families – The Kepharts of Hollidaysburg, who received $2,000, and the Stolz family of Altoona, who received a significant $5,400. The impact of these funds goes beyond monetary value, offering a lifeline of support to those bravely battling cancer.

The community spirit was further evidenced in the sale of over 800 articles of clothing between the two schools. Additionally, $3,400 in direct donations poured in, emphasizing the widespread commitment to making a positive impact on the lives of those affected by cancer.

On the day of the game, the atmosphere was charged with emotion and excitement. A sell-out crowd gathered, underlining the community’s wholehearted involvement in the cause. The game itself lived up to its rivalry status, with Hollidaysburg emerging victorious with a thrilling 21-20 win. The triumph extended beyond the field as Hollidaysburg celebrated with the coveted “I Can Cup” for the first time, symbolizing not only a victory in the game but a triumph in the collective fight against cancer.

Adding to the significance of the day, Sideline Cancer announced a partnership with the Brian Morden Foundation of Altoona, further amplifying the impact of their collective efforts. This collaboration underscores the interconnectedness of various organizations working towards a common goal – supporting cancer patients and their families.

In conclusion, the Rivalry Football Game transcended its role as a sporting spectacle; it became a powerful narrative of community strength, compassion, and the unwavering commitment to combating cancer. Sideline Cancer’s 10th-anniversary celebration at Hollidaysburg High School showcased the incredible potential of combining sports, community, and a noble cause, leaving an indelible mark on the ongoing fight against cancer.

To host a Sideline Cancer Event click here : HOST A SIDELINE CANCER EVENT 

To show your support and help raise awareness you can purchase your Sideline Cancer apparel here : Sideline Cancer 

Follow Sideline Cancer on Instagram here : @sidelinecancer