Villanova University, North Penn High School Pace NFHCA’s Play4The Cure Efforts
MANAHAWKIN, NJ – Field hockey teams across the nation are stepping up to the plate, not just for the love of the game, but to make an impact in the fight against cancer. Two examples of this spirit are Villanova University and North Penn High School, both of which have embraced the Play4TheCure initiative, raising funds and awareness for cancer research.
Villanova University: A Commitment to a Greater Cause
Villanova University’s field hockey team has rallied together, raising nearly $3,500 for Play4TheCure. Head Coach Joanie Milhous highlights her team’s personal connection with cancer, stating, “We wanted to do Play4TheCure because it covers many different cancers, and our team has been affected in many ways.” This commitment was amplified by the experience of their assistant coach, Karlie Kisha, who discovered she had thyroid cancer just before competing with the US Women’s National Team in the 2024 Paris Olympics. After undergoing surgery, Karlie was back with her team in Belgium just days later, exemplifying resilience and determination.
On October 11, Villanova hosted a “Pink” game against Liberty University, not only to compete but also to honor those impacted by cancer. This event is a powerful testament to the team’s dedication to raising awareness and contributing to a meaningful cause while still engaging in competitive play.
North Penn High School: Student-Athlete Driven Impact
Similarly, North Penn High School in Lansdale, Pennsylvania, has embraced the Play4TheCure initiative. Head coach Shannon McCracken shared that the motivation came directly from her senior captains and the senior class, who were eager to give back to the community. “They understand that they can make an impact beyond the playing field,” she noted, emphasizing that this was a student-athlete driven endeavor.
North Penn has successfully raised nearly $2,500 for the cause. Their “Pink” game took place on October 7 against Central Bucks South High School, showcasing the students’ commitment to making a difference.
A Shared Mission
Both Villanova and North Penn exemplify the core mission of Play4TheCure: to leverage the power of sports to create awareness and support for cancer research. By hosting these “Pink” games and rallying their communities, these teams are not just playing for victory; they are playing for hope, healing, and a future free from cancer.
As the field hockey community continues to unite in this fight, the efforts of Villanova University and North Penn High School are inspiring examples of how sports can make a significant difference beyond the field. Their dedication to honoring those affected by cancer and raising funds for research serves as a reminder of the strength and impact of coming together for a common cause.
Follow along with NFHCA-affiliated teams’ progress on P4TC’s Fundraising Page to see all of the great work being done to raise awareness and funds for this important cause.
What is Play4TheCure?
Play4TheCure is the sport fundraising program for the National Foundation for Cancer Research which provides funding worldwide to the best scientists to enable cutting edge research that other large cancer organizations can’t and won’t fund. Play4TheCure inspires athletes and their teams to leverage their passion for sports to “Play4” loved ones affected by cancer and encourages them to actively participate in working to fund cancer research to make a difference.
The National Foundation for Cancer Research (NFCR) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that provides scientists in the lab the funding they need to make game-changing discoveries in cancer treatments, detection, prevention, and ultimately, a cure. NFCR has distinguished itself in the cancer research sector by emphasizing long-term, transformative research often overlooked by other major funding sources. With the help of more than 5.3 million individual donors over the last 50 years, NFCR has provided $410 million in funding to cancer research, prevention, and public education leading to some of the important, life-saving discoveries that benefit patients today.
Learn more about NFCR and Play4TheCure at https://www.nfcr.org/play4thecure-2/
The National Field Hockey Coaches Association (NFHCA) is a nonprofit organization serving field hockey coaches and supporters of the game from across the United States. The mission of the organization is to champion, strengthen, and celebrate field hockey coaches and the game. The NFHCA strives to cultivate and recognize the professional contributions of its membership and to foster and promote the growth of the sport. The NFHCA is responsible for providing a recognizable presence and voice in regard to legislation affecting the sport as well as interscholastic and intercollegiate programs.