LAMORINDA WEEKLY | Gael's Digging Against Breast Cancer


Photo Doug Kohen

The Saint Mary's women's volleyball team will "Dig Pink" for breast cancer on Saturday, October 10th when they face off against the University of San Francisco. October is Breast Cancer Awareness month and all proceeds of the Gael's third annual Breast Cancer Awareness Game will go to the Side Out Foundation. According to their mission statement, Side Out's war against breast cancer is dedicated to supporting health care professionals as they pursue practical solutions for women and men with this disease.

The fight against cancer hits close to home for the Gael's as one of their historically best players, Mandy Bible, lost her mother to cancer. Bible's mother passed during her senior season the morning before they played Santa Clara. Head coach Rob Browning says, "Mandy chose to play in the match and she was huge inspiration to everyone, including the opposing team and coaches. It was arguably the best match of her career."

The Gael women have been working hard to raise money, reaching out to the community for support. Alita Fisher, who leads the team in digs, said, "I think it's awesome to do what we do every day and do what we love and be able to contribute to the fight against breast cancer."

Saint Mary's goal is to raise $1,000. All fans can contribute by making a lump sum donation, or pledging a dollar amount per total team digs throughout the match.

This year, along with dig pledges and donations, they will be holding a raffle for gift baskets, an autographed volleyball from the SMC team and other donated prizes. Sodexo, Saint Mary's on campus dinning service, will be selling pink cookies and cupcakes to help raise money as well.

Browning says, "Breast cancer has affected so many people in all communities and we are thrilled to be able to contribute to the awareness and fight to beat it." The Gaels will wear pink pre-game warm-up shirts and ribbons in their hair as a sign of their commitment to the fight. Wear pink with the Gaels and receive $2 off your ticket price, as you show your support in the fight against breast cancer.

For questions or a donation form, interested parties can contact Todd Ogorzelec, SMC Director of Events and Promotions, at togorzel@stmarys-ca.edu or at 925-631-4656.