June 15, 2024
Celebrating the 13th Annual Sideline Cancer Golf Tournament at Scotch Valley Country Club
Celebrating the 13th Annual Sideline Cancer Golf Tournament at Scotch Valley Country Club
On a beautiful day at Scotch Valley Country Club, the 13th Annual Sideline Cancer Golf Tournament brought together an incredible community of supporters to tee off for a cause. From its humble beginnings in 2012 with just 13 foursomes, this event has grown into a cornerstone of Sideline Cancer’s mission, featuring 35 foursomes this year. Thanks to the hard work of individuals like Shawn McCarl and Jennifer Gregory, the 2024 tournament was a resounding success, demonstrating the power of community and compassion.
The tournament’s emotional centerpiece was an unforgettable speech by Tana Byler, a Martinsburg, PA native and a recipient of $11,000 from Sideline Cancer’s Patient Assistance Program. Tana, currently battling Triple Negative Breast Cancer, shared how the funds raised by her community have provided crucial support during her treatment. Her heartfelt words, including the powerful statement, “Greg Griffith has clearly left behind a legacy, and because of everyone’s support of my battle, I’m about to write my legacy thanks to you all,” resonated deeply with everyone present. Tana’s bravery and “I Can Attitude & Believe Always Spirit” inspired the golfers and encapsulated the spirit of Sideline Cancer.
The tradition of featuring a guest speaker at the tournament began in 2021 when professional basketball player Maurice Creek shared his journey. This year, the honor went to Tana Byler, who also spoke about the incredible support she received from the Central High School community during their “Bigger Than Softball Game” against Tyrone on April 9th, 2024. That event, marked by extraordinary generosity, raised $11,000—including a surprise $5,500 matching donation from local businessman Andrew Ritchey of Ritchey’s Dairy. It’s moments like these that highlight the profound generosity of Central PA communities.
The golf tournament also showcased fierce competition across three divisions—Women’s, Mixed, and Men’s. Congratulations to the following division winners:
Women’s Division : Michelle Day, Kristine Gibson, Rozzie Sky, and Kim McCarl
Mixed Division : Steve Pope, Phillip Pope, Patty Brouse, and Sharon Decker
Men’s Division : George Savine, Mike Maier, Frank Wiley, and Brian Hall
The Women’s and Mixed Division winners proudly took home the iconic “I Can Cup” as a testament to their skill and teamwork.
Events like the Sideline Cancer Golf Tournament wouldn’t be possible without the unwavering support of donors, volunteers, and participants. Together, we continue to sideline cancer, one swing at a time. Special thanks to the golfers, sponsors, and community members who donated their time and resources to make this event a success.
This year’s tournament not only celebrated the power of golf to bring people together but also underscored Sideline Cancer’s commitment to patient assistance. In the past school year alone, the organization has donated nearly $100,000 to support over 20 cancer patients in Central PA, reinforcing its mission to make a tangible difference in the lives of those battling cancer.
As Tana Byler begins her journey with the support of her community, she reminds us all of the importance of legacy—both in honoring Greg Griffith’s vision and in creating our own. Together, we can continue to Sideline Cancer.
If you’re in the Central PA area, don’t forget to visit Ritchey’s Dairy for some delicious ice cream—and join us in supporting this incredible cause!
