For most college students, it has probably been years since they last gathered with their friends to play kickball. Rusty or not, students are being called to lace up their sneakers for the next big game for a cause.
Colleges Against Cancer (CAC), a student-run organization, is heading to the field to put on its first Save Second Base Kickball Tournament.
"Money from the tournament is going to UB's chapter of Colleges Against Cancer," said Allison Landry, president of CAC. "Throughout the year we are going to fundraise and at the end we'll give a big donation to the American Cancer Society, which assists families, survivors, research and recovery costs."
According to Rahul Chopra, vice president of CAC, the idea for Save Second Base came from an old high school concept. Rounding second base meant "feeling up," and that fit perfectly with the push for breast cancer screenings this month.
"Breast cancer awareness is in October, so we came up with the slogan Save Second Base for shirts. It's a cute pun-saving your chest plus promoting the cause," Landry said.
Those without athletic abilities shouldn't be afraid to come out and support the cause, according to Chopra.
"We thought about doing softball or baseball, but realized that kickball was definitely the best sport to incorporate," Chopra said. "It gives participants a chance to kick cancer out of their lives."
The Save Second Base kickball tournament will be held at the field next to Governor's on Oct. 25 and registration will begin at 11:30 a.m. The tournament will take place between two fields and will go until 5 p.m., Landry said.
"There will be a 50/50 raffle, music, food for sale and the opportunity to begin purchasing and decorating luminaries bags, in memory or honor of someone who has been affected by cancer," Chopra said.
Funds raised will allow CAC to bring awareness concerning skin, breast, cervical and lung cancer.
According to Heather Saba, entertainment and activities co-chairwoman of CAC, the involvement of students is especially important. Spurring awareness among younger people can lead to an increase in early detection, Saba said.
"This year marks a new height for college students, thanks to Michelle's Law, which now allows college students to take a leave of absence when they are undergoing chemotherapy and still get their medical bills covered by their health insurance," Chopra said. "We are hoping for more and more progress and good news throughout the year."
Breast cancer rates are growing in both men and women. The emphasis this month is placed on breast cancer, but cancer in general is the group's main focus, Saba said.
"It would be great for students to get involved to build awareness around the campus, build the group and raise the funds for the research and help all the people affected out there," Landry said.
Save Second Base will take place rain or shine and students are encouraged to make their own jerseys as well as purchase T-shirts at the event, Landry said.
The tournament is open to students, alumni and outside community members with teams consisting of a minimum of 10 players and a maximum of 12.
Teams can register at 235 Student Union or download the forms at www.cacrelay.buffalo.edu. The fee is $25 and anyone who is interested must register by Oct. 24, Chopra said.
Student organizations and community members not interested in participating can volunteer or sponsor bases. Clubs and organizations can sponsor a regular base for $50; second base for $100; or be a pink sponsor for $150.
According to Chopra, the CAC meets every Monday at 6:15 p.m. in 235 Student Union and anyone interested in further events or the group itself is welcome.
Photo: Courtesy of Laron Fomby
