On Sunday Oct. 27, 2024, Scotch Plains’ Southside Field held Kicking Out Cancer, a friendly soccer tournament for second through seventh graders that raised money for breast cancer research and awareness that went towards women and families affected through the National Breast Cancer Foundation.
Over $11,000 were raised and 100% of profits went directly to the National Breast Cancer Foundation. Since late September, donations had been flooding in from community members eager to support the cause.
SPFHS junior Gianna Rundella founded the fundraiser after her mother’s battle with breast cancer this past summer. Thankfully she has since recovered, but Rundella didn’t want to stop there.
She saw the impacts of the horrible disease and, in turn, an opportunity to do something about it.
“It wasn’t until my mom was diagnosed with breast cancer that I realized how many people are affected by this disease,” Rundella said. “I’m determined to help find a cure for breast cancer.”
Rundella plays on the Varsity girls soccer team at SPFHS, and has been playing soccer nearly her entire life. This was a large part of her initiative to create a fundraiser centered around a sport she loves.
Besides Rundella, a few other members made up the Kicking Out Cancer team. Other juniors at SPFHS took part in the planning of the fundraiser included Lily Cirillo as Head of Creative Design, Emily Roof as Head of Logistics, Emma Piszko as Head of Human Resources, and Keira Rosa as Head of Recruitment.
“When Gianna came to us for help, we knew we wanted to support her in any way possible. We knew this fundraiser would make a difference, so we thank everyone who donated and played in the tournament for being a part of it too.” Piszko said.
Around 3:30 p.m. an opening ceremony took place where Rundella introduced herself and the importance of the occasion. She briefly explained her connection with breast cancer and thanked participants for coming out to play for an amazing cause.
Once the tournament began and upbeat music started playing, it came out to be a fun-filled afternoon. Players scrimmaged among their teams and played other soccer games like lightning, a shooting and goal-saving game. Towards the end of the event, a players versus coaches game took place, where volunteers played against participants.
All participants won medals and gift bags with candy after playing. An ice cream truck also arrived during the event, giving everyone the opportunity to grab a sweet snack.
The combined effort from the Kicking Out Cancer team, volunteers, and other sponsors contributed to the success of the fundraiser. Though it hasn’t been confirmed, it is likely the fundraiser will become an annual event and will continue the ongoing fight against breast cancer.
