By: Karen Jackson

Galway is a place where causes taken up by the whole community are ones that have a lasting influence for years to come.  The Annual Coaches vs. Cancer Basketball Game is no different. 

This year, the Coaches vs. Cancer Game was played against one of Galway’s rival teams, Mayfield.  Putting aside their differences, both teams raised money for cancer research buying t-shirts they wore before the game. 

Mrs. Wilday commented, “It was the second time the opposing team has been involved in the fundraising, this year’s being Mayfield and last year’s being Fort Plain.  On top of having just the varsity girls’ basketball team involved, we had both girls’ and boys’ modified basketball teams, JV boys, the wrestling coaches, and the JV and varsity cheerleading squads, making this year an even greater success than last.  This year truly felt like all the coaches for winter sports were against cancer, not just one or two and I know to me and the rest of the community, that made this game special.” 

After asking how much money the team raised for cancer research, Mrs. Wilday said she estimates the amount to be over $500, more raised  than last year’s game.

As mentioned before, the cheerleading squad was also included in this fundraising as well.  Being part of the cheerleading squad, on varsity, this was the first time we actually were able to buy the shirts our Galway girls’ team would be wearing before the game.  We also had a lot of fun participating in the basketball throw competition the varsity girls were holding to raise more money for the game. 

Ms. Verrigni said, “It was nice to see a wide variety of participation in the cause: parents, cheerleaders, the players, and the girls from our cheer clinic.  Having different groups come together for one cause is so beneficial to the community and it really brought more of the community aspect together.”

Talking to the girls on the squads, I found they really appreciated the feeling of being a part of the Coaches vs. Cancer cause and they’re looking forward to next year’s game as well!

Hopefully we’ll see you at one of the games soon!  For now though, keep fighting against cancer Galway and stay aware!