The Virginia Wesleyan College softball team hosted its annual Strike out Cancer event on April 16. The event is constructed to raise money for the American Cancer Society and is an annual event Virginia Wesleyan Softball has run since 2008.
Starting in 2008, the softball team raised $3,309. That number has increased every year. This year’s event proceeds totaled $17,206, exceeding their goal of $15,000. This is their record high total since the first event in 2008.
“I remember when we got three thousand dollars in 2008 we were so pumped up. Never in a million years did I imagine that this thing would grow the way that it has,” head softball coach Brandon Elliott said.
Because the event was held on VWC Day, it attracts both current and prospective students, parents, fans and other teams such as Emory & Henry’s softball team, Shenandoah baseball team and the VWC baseball players.
“It was great to see the VWC community come together like this. The amount of money raised was incredible. It made me incredibly proud to be a Marlin,” student attendee Caleb Mercer said.
The day is particularly special for Elliott who lost his mother to cancer in 2008. The event happens during the month of her birthday in remembrance of her life.
The event includes food, a presentation and a big silent auction in aid of the event. For the event, the lady Marlins charge $5 for entry. Virginia Wesleyan College hosts an open house on the day of the event as well. Instead of paying for food in the cafeteria, guests pay for their lunch outside.
The success of this event shows how the VWC community can come together and support a great cause. The softball team’s efforts have earned them great respect, and their giving will continue to be contagious for years to come.
Henry Tasker
hltasker
