Triton College Softball Team Raises $2,000 for Breast Cancer Research

The Triton College softball program continued their commitment to community service by raising a total of $2,000 for the Susan G. Komen Foundation in the fight against breast cancer.
The team raised $1,500 in February by donating $5 for every child that participated in their youth softball camp and the rest during the final regular season home game May 2 vs. Moraine Valley Community College, themed "Swings for Susan."
Not even an inch of rainfall overnight could damper the occasion.
"When the team saw the condition of the field when they arrived, they all thought we were not playing," said Triton head coach Art Kasak. "We had puddles everywhere. Then the sun came out and we were able to get the field in shape and only started 10 minutes late."
During the doubleheader, the Lady Trojans wore pink jerseys, while the visiting Cyclones wore pink ribbons with their jerseys. Even the umpiring crew was in the spirit by wearing pink ribbons as well. In addition, everyone in the crowd received a pink ribbon as many of the spectators sported pink t-shirts.
The field was also pretty in pink as both the baselines and bases were painted the color. In the outfield, the team decorated the fence with pink and white balloons and painted a pink ribbon in the centerfield grass.
Throughout both games, members of the team and other volunteers walked the crowd asking for donations.
Before the contest, Triton and Moraine Valley took a group photo together as a sign of unity in the battle against breast cancer.
"It was a special day for our team both on and off the field," said Kasak. "It was great to have Moraine Valley be a part of this. We both had a common goal and that was breast cancer awareness."
But the highlight of the day occurred between games as two cancer survivors, Marlene Szyszka (14 years) and Karen Cox (4 years) each tossed ceremonial pitches. The two also received a gift bag from the Lady Trojans.
"It was wonderful to have those ladies in attendance," Kasak said. "The game was secondary at that moment and the day was all about honoring women just like them for their strength and courage."
For more information on Triton College Athletics, visit www.triton.edu/athletics or call Athletic Director Harry McGinnis at (708) 456-0300, Ext. 3784.
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