Chippewa Softball Takes A Swing At Cancer
4/12/2016 12:00:00 AM | Softball
Cullen Maksimowski, CMUChippewas.com
MOUNT PLEASANT, Mich. — Sometimes in athletics, whether it be at the amateur or professional level, it's important to take a step back from competition and gain some perspective on issues that reach far beyond the playing surface.
This is what the Central Michigan softball team aims to accomplish when it takes the field for its annual Strikeout Cancer Pink Game doubleheader on Saturday at 1 p.m. at Margo Jonker Stadium against Toledo.
The Strikeout Cancer Pink Game is a sponsored event of the National Fastpitch Coaches Association and aims to raise money and awareness for the National Cancer Research Foundation.
On Wednesday and Thursday, April 13-14, from 5:30-7 p.m., students, faculty and the local community members can participate in a home run derby at Margo Jonker Stadium. Derby participants pay $5 for five swings and may participate in either or both nights.
"I think every one of us has had someone close to us that has had the issue of cancer to deal with, so anything we can do to help the greater good of society means a lot to us," CMU coach Margo Jonker said.
"Softball is very important part of our lives, but it's only a small part. The issue of cancer and cancer research is so much bigger in life and that's what I believe athletics should be all about, preparing people for life."
Coaches and players will sport custom pink gear on for Saturday's twinbill. Custom Adidas jerseys will be available for purchase after the game. All Strikeout Cancer jerseys are $100 and proceeds go NCRF.
The Chippewas have teamed up with the students in the PES: 550 Sport Fundraising class to help with fundraising and promotional efforts leading up to the event.
"Our goal is to raise as much awareness and attention to cancer research through the CMU softball program," said marketing and PR group leader Jonah Ings. "An event like this is a great opportunity for us students to gain experience and also give to a valuable cause."
With a goal of raising $5,000, students have worked throughout the semester to develop series of fundraising events.
"Our marketing and PR team has done tremendous work utilizing social media," said Ings. "We created flyers and posters, and communicated with other local media outlets to help spread the word about the events."
The top two home run hitters after the Wednesday and Thursday derby will compete for a $75 CMU Bookstore gift card between games at Saturday's Pink Game doubleheader.
On game day students will be raffling several prizes and hosting a silent auction featuring items donated by local businesses. Official Strikeout Cancer T-shirts will be available for $15 at both events.
More details are available on the class Facebook page, CMU Strikeout Cancer Softball Game 2016, or on Twitter @KcancerCMU. Those interested in donating to the event can visit their GoFundMe page, https://www.gofundme.com/5fpk4ctm.