Ranked 20th in the nation, the CSM Hawks Volleyball team has been raising money to fight breast cancer during its October games. Front from left are Tandee’ Holly, Brooke Martin, Gigi Gilmore, Connie Marcum and Megan Sturman; rear from left are coaches Nila Straka, Michelle Ruble, teammates Kelsey Loss, Liberty McLean, Katlin Gardiner, Carlie Wood, Ashley Wolfe and Chantal Hebron, and coaches Pat Brewer and Ron Swann. (Submitted photo)
LA PLATA, Md. (Oct. 23, 2008)—The College of Southern Maryland Hawks Volleyball Team has been participating throughout October in the nationwide “Dig Pink” campaign to raise money for breast cancer research.
The efforts began at CSM’s home game Oct. 3 against Chesapeake, with both CSM and Chesapeake teams wearing special pink uniforms to pay tribute to those who are fighting breast cancer. Spectators and guests were also encouraged to wear pink or to buy a T-shirt at the game. The proceeds from the sale of the shirts and baked goods will be used to help fight breast cancer.
“Our Associate Head Coach is a breast cancer survivor and many of our team members have been touched by this disease in some way. We all thought it was important and we are excited about participating with many other colleges and high schools across the country in October to ‘Dig Pink,’” said Michelle Ruble, CSM athletic director and Volleyball head coach.
“Dig Pink” is a breast cancer awareness rally sponsored by the Side-Out Foundation during the month of October, Breast Cancer Awareness Month. The Side-Out Foundation is a Virginia-based, non-profit, charitable organization. The name of the organization highlights its purpose - a “Side-Out” in volleyball occurs when a team scores from their opponent’s serve and regains control of the ball.
Ruble said that the team hopes to educate young women about breast cancer, honor those who continue to battle the disease and raise some funds along the way.
This is the first time that the volleyball team has participated in a Side-Out Foundation program. “My mother has breast cancer. It has been a really emotional time. I am all for 'Dig Pink,’” said CSM’s Defensive Specialist Gigi Gilmore.
The Hawks’ “Dig Pink” matches will conclude Oct. 24 at Chesapeake at 6 p.m.
The Hawks have been ranked as high as 20th in the National Junior College Athletic Association Division II Volleyball Poll this season and as of Oct. 23 are ranked among the top 25. Gilmore said,” It feels really good. Through hard work and teamwork, we have maintained our ranking, and I am really proud of the team.”