Pink Night Scores a Victory
The Riverhawk volleyball team walked away from their October 22 match against Multnomah University with more than just a victory. UCC had only one win in their past ten matches, and were riding an eight game losing streak entering their match-up at the Hawk Nest.
The Riverhawks (8-24, 0-7 NWAC South) quickly took care of business in a straight set thrashing of Multnomah, (25-10), (25-16), (25-20). Umpqua’s Skylar Tanner and Kelsey Warren each contributed 14 assists, while Jocelyn Valencia had 16 digs in the contest. Mariah Gladden added a match high 11 kills.
However, Wednesday evening was about much more than just volleyball. This night was about raising awareness for breast cancer. According to the American Cancer Society, in 2014 approximately 39,620 people in the U.S. will die from breast cancer. They also state 12 percent of women, one in eight, will be diagnosed with the invasive form of cancer in their lifetime. In the same year, approximately 232,340 people are going to be diagnosed with the disease.
The Umpqua squad took the floor clad in pink t-shirts, the color designated for breast cancer awareness. Players and students expressed their appreciation for the opportunity to be able to take part in the event.
“It’s pretty cool that the teams in our league support breast cancer awareness though out the month of October,” Warren said. “Last year we donated all the money we raised from our pink night to the Community Cancer Center. It was an amazing feeling that my team was able to help out.”
The Community Cancer Center is a non-profit, private, charitable organization based in Roseburg with a goal of helping those with cancer treatment. Their website lists a simple philosophy: “To give hope, when life is challenged by cancer and to care for all who need it in Douglas County.”
Taking part in the evening took on special significance due to the fact current and former members of the volleyball team have family that is currently battling the disease.
“In the most simplest form: It’s awesome,” sophomore Jocelyn Valencia said. “I can’t think of a better way to help raise awareness for something than pairing it up with something you love to do. Especially since our Pink Night was more so dedicated to our teammates family members.”
For sophomore student Alison Kugler, breast cancer has effected people close to her. The evening marked the first time she had attended a UCC game.
“I’ve never been to a volleyball match at UCC before,” Kugler said. “Not because I didn’t want to, I like a lot of people am just busy. But, I went because I wanted to show my support. So many people and families are effected by this. I’m really proud of my school and our team for taking part in raising its awareness.”