As the crowd cheers fill the court, the energy in the room, students chanting in unison which is creating an electrifying atmosphere. The players are determined to score, ready to showcase their skills and compete for victory.
In addition to the excitement of the basketball match, it holds a deeper significance as it aims to raise awareness about cancer. The players, coaches, and students come together not only for the love of the sport, but to also support crucial causes. The events brings awareness to cancer. Students and spectators will wear pink to the Mehlville vs. Lindbergh games on Tues., Feb. 4 as a way to show respect.
Senior Leadership student Annabelle Meyer said, “the game is to recognize cancer awareness.” and how the “community comes together and raises money for all types of cancer. They also allow people from the community who might have had a loved one or someone who was struggling with cancer come forward and could speak about their experiences.”
The game will serve as a reminder while we cheer for our teams on the court, we also stand united in the fight against cancer, showing respect and hope for a future free from this devastating disease.
According to the American Cancer Society 1.9 million new cancers cases are expected to be diagnosed in the United States in 2025. Cancer is also the second leading cause of death globally, estimated 9.6 million deaths in 2018 according to the World Health Organization.
The cost to enter the game is $5 and $3 for Mehlville students with ID. Both boys and girls JV teams will play at 4 p.m. in Gym A and Gym B respectively. The boys freshmen team plays in Gym B at 5:30 p.m., while the girls varsity plays in Gym A at the same time. The boys varsity game will be held at 7 p.m. in Gym A.
After the first quarter of the boys varsity game, there will be a miracle minute to raise money for cancer research. Spectators can also view and contribute to the Wall of Hope. Players have shared “who they play” for messages as well. Finally, girls basketball coach Tom Harper will be sharing a message of his cancer journey at the beginning of the boys varsity game.
