Although the Eagles lost a tough game to the Bulldogs last Friday, they were part of a bigger win: a win for cancer. Liberty North teamed up with Grandview to raise money for the Coaches Versus Cancer foundation. Chick-fil-A also helped by donating food for anyone who made a three dollar donation. The turnout was huge,and all proceeds from the game went to The American Cancer Society.

The game began with a moving introduction video, summing up the importance of cancer research. As the starting lineups were announced, each player was escorted by someone with cancer, or someone affected significantly by cancer. The crowd cheered as the spotlight of each basketball player was shared with someone whose life has been altered by cancer.

“I feel it is so important for our players to participate in events like Coaches versus Cancer because we are so lucky that our fans come to support our basketball team, so we must do things to support our community in return,” Varsity Boys’ Basketball Coach Chris McCabe said.

Cancer affects many people in each and everyone’s life.

“I think it was important for us to participate on Friday because cancer is a very dangerous disease and helping to find a cure is extremely important to a lot of people,” Varsity player Jake Hanson said. The Coaches versus Cancer game affected everyone who was present last week.

Seeing the survivors who have conquered cancer melted many hearts.

“The game was close to my heart not only because my mom fought and beat breast cancer, but also because of everyone else there that I knew had cancer. I know that they really appreciated everything that was done for them last week. It was just an overall neat night,” Hanson said.

As the buzzer rang, the boys began the tip off for the beginning of the game; this time not only playing for their team but also the good of their community.

“As a team, we always talk about being a family, and as coaches we want to impact their lives as much as they impact our lives. We also feel that as a team, we should do our part in impacting the people in our area,” McCabe said.

Nearly $1500 was raised for the American Cancer Society that night in hope that they will one day find a cure for cancer. Although the Eagles lost the basketball game, both teams still came out as winners. With generous donations from fans and sponsors, we are one step closer to finding a cure.