The Conestoga High School Basketball Coaches have partnered with Raymond Central’s sports director to host a Coaches for Cancer fundraiser. In preparation for the event, basketball players were encouraged to spread the word about the fundraiser within their community. The game against Raymond Central on Feb 4 was designated as Conestoga’s Pink Out Night, highlighting the importance of cancer awareness.

The girls’ basketball team went above and beyond by creating posters to display at a local cancer clinic, further promoting awareness. They also distributed flyers throughout the Conestoga community, encouraging everyone to get involved.

On the night of the game, donation flyers were available at the entrance, giving parents and friends the opportunity to contribute. To further raise awareness, all high school basketball players and the spirit squad wore cancer awareness shirts to school and during warm-ups. The girls team also sported pink socks during the game.

The money raised will support the American Cancer Society by funding innovative research, providing resources for those affected by cancer, offering transportation for treatment, and providing accommodations for patients traveling far from home for care.

“Our goal is to help stop cancer in its tracks,” said Mark Skiles, head coach of the girls’ basketball team. “Cancer has touched everyone in some way, and we’re proud to contribute to this important cause.”

The Coaches for Cancer initiative is a national program open to teams across the country. Conestoga will continue collecting donations through July, both online and in cash. Every donation, no matter the size, makes a difference in the fight against cancer.