Written by Samantha Reed, Staff Writer
Varsity volleyball rallies community for breast cancer awareness.
On Friday, September 26th, Riverside Poly’s High School girls varsity volleyball won in their match against Hillcrest. Even though every win is something to add to the book of accomplishments, this win was very special as it went towards a specific cause. The girls traded their usual green and orange uniforms for bright pink and white ones to embrace and spread awareness for breast cancer. Players, students, families, individuals from the community, and breast cancer survivors all came together decked out in pin shirts, ribbons, and signs to show their support for those battling the disease and honor survivors in the community. The game was not just about volleyball, it was about uniting as a school to spread hope, educate others, and remind everyone why awareness and early detection matter.
With all the girls’ hard work and motivation they not only spread awareness for Breast Cancer but they also helped raise money for the cause by using their talent and love for the sport. According to Lauren Green, a junior on the team, “one thing fans might not know is that for every ace [they] served, a bucket was passed around to collect donations. Half of the money raised went to support breast cancer efforts.”
The girls’ varsity volleyball team always performs exceptionally, but the theme and support the crowd had for the cause and the girls positively impacted the outcome of the match. When interviewing Junior Lily Kendall, she stated that when she walked onto the court in her pink jersey and gear, “it was such an honor to those who fought and survived breast cancer.” In addition she hopes that their “annual Pink Out games bring the community together and spread awareness of breast cancers and the survivors and who have fallen.” Lauren Green, another junior on the team also shares how “the Pink Out crowd gave [her] so much confidence and energy. Their support made [her] feel more motivated to play [her] best.” Senior Dakota Carvo adds that she “will always stand by playing for a cause because it puts a lot more weight on why you play, and it just brings out the best in everyone.” For many of the athletes, this game was about more than just stats and working towards CIF; it was about playing with heart, honoring survivors, and using their platform to make a difference. Parents and community members were moved, and several survivors in attendance expressed gratitude to the team for dedicating the night to them.
Even though this was no ordinary game, during interviews, the players had time to reflect on the turn out of the game. According to Dakota Carvo (12), the team did face a challenge. “After a long week of school, practices and other difficult league games, it can be hard to come out on a Friday and give it your all.” She noted, “ the second set showed us truly how hard times can be when we’re tired and exhausted,” but this team never gives up, and they swept them 3-0! Lily Kendall (11) shared that “as a middle blocker, getting a block always gets [her] hyped.” The passion Poly’s Girl’s Volleyball Team has for their sport is shown each and every time they take the court.
With a thrilling win over Hillcrest and a gym full of support, the night will be remembered not only for the victory or the scoreboard, but for the hope and unity it brought to RIverside Poly. The Pink Out game once again proved how sports can be a powerful way to inspire change, raise awareness, and bring a community together for a cause that touches many lives.