The Medina girls volleyball team is making a difference both on and off the court as they gear up for a special game on September 26th. This game is not just about competition; it's about coming together to support a local cause that touches the lives of many in the community.
The Mary Grace Memorial Foundation, which hosts the annual Race with Grace event, is the focus of the team's upcoming game against the Brunswick Blue Devils.
The foundation aims to raise funds to assist local individuals who are battling cancer and in need of basic life necessities. For the past 12 years, the Medina Lady Bees volleyball team has been dedicated to supporting this important cause.
Head varsity volleyball coach Jason Schellenberger shared the origins of this meaningful initiative. "This all started as Volley for the Cure many years ago," he explained. "But after Mary Grace passed away, a parent came to us with the idea of keeping the funds local." This shift in focus has allowed the team to directly impact the lives of those in their own community who are facing the challenges of cancer.
The upcoming game, scheduled to take place at the Medina High School gym from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m., will serve as a platform to raise funds for the Mary Grace Memorial Foundation.
Attendees will have various opportunities to show their support, including participating in a basket raffle, a 50/50 raffle, and purchasing 2024 Ace for Grace spirit wear.
In a heartwarming gesture, anyone wearing the 2024 Ace for Grace spirit wear will receive free admission to the game. Additionally, spirit wear will be available for purchase at the door, allowing even more individuals to contribute to the cause.
Last year, the volleyball team achieved a significant milestone by raising over $10,000 for the Mary Grace Memorial Foundation. Tina Sabol, a dedicated volleyball mom, expressed her pride in the team's accomplishment.
"I think the year before that, we had gotten very close to the $10,000 goal so we were very happy to finally reach it last year," she shared. Sabol also revealed the team's ambitious goal of surpassing the $10,000 mark this year and expressed gratitude towards local businesses willing to support as sponsors.
"We have a really nice basket raffle and we would love it if local businesses would come forth with items from their business or a donation toward a basket," Sabol added. The generosity of local businesses can make a significant impact in contributing to the success of the fundraising efforts.
JV head coach Emily Myers emphasized the importance of giving back to the community. "This community always comes together to support each other," Myers stated.
"This volleyball team is always working together, it’s part of our lives every day. It just makes sense that these young ladies give back to a local foundation that helps other families when they need it most.
It’s a win on the court and in life." Myers' words capture the spirit of unity and compassion that drives the team's commitment to supporting those in need.
As the date of the game draws near, there is a sense of anticipation and excitement within the Medina community.
The Medina Lady Bees volleyball team is not only preparing for a thrilling match against their rivals but also rallying together to make a meaningful difference in the lives of individuals battling cancer.
Their dedication and passion serve as an inspiration to others, demonstrating the power of sports to bring about positive change beyond the confines of the playing field.
In conclusion, the upcoming game between the Medina Lady Bees volleyball team and the Brunswick Blue Devils is more than just a sporting event; it's a demonstration of solidarity and support for a cause that holds deep significance for many in the community.
Through their fundraising efforts and commitment to making a difference, the team exemplifies the true spirit of sportsmanship and compassion. As they take to the court on September 26th, their actions will resonate far beyond the game itself, leaving a lasting impact on those they seek to help.
