CSM volleyball digs pink

Friday, Nov. 14, 2008

Click here to enlarge this photo Submitted photo Ranked 20th in the nation, the College of Southern Maryland Hawks volleyball team has been raising money to fight breast cancer during its October matches. In the front row, from left, are Tanee' Holly, Brooke Martin, Gigi Gilmore, Connie Marcum and Megan Sturman. In the back row are coaches Nila Straka, left, Michelle Ruble, teammates Kelsey Loss, Liberty McLean, Katlin Gardiner, Carlie Wood, Ashley Wolfe and Chantal Hebron and coaches Pat Brewer and Ron Swann. E-Mail This Article | Print This Story

The College of Southern Maryland Hawks volleyball team has been participating throughout October in the nationwide "Dig Pink" campaign to raise money for breast cancer research. The Hawks' "Dig Pink" matches concluded Oct. 24 at Chesapeake.

The efforts began at CSM's home game Oct. 3 against Chesapeake, with both CSM and Chesapeake teams wearing special pink uniforms to pay tribute to those who are fighting breast cancer. Spectators and guests were also encouraged to wear pink or to buy a T-shirt at the game. The proceeds from the sale of T-shirts and baked goods will help fight breast cancer.

"Our associate head coach is a breast cancer survivor and many of our team members have been touched by this disease in some way. We all thought it was important and we are excited about participating with many other colleges and high schools across the country in October to ‘Dig Pink,'" said Michelle Ruble, CSM athletic director and volleyball head coach.

"Dig Pink" is a breast cancer awareness rally sponsored by the Side-Out Foundation during the month of October, Breast Cancer Awareness Month. The Side-Out Foundation is a Virginia-based, non-profit, charitable organization. The name of the organization highlights its purpose –– a side-out in volleyball occurs when a team scores from their opponent's serve and regains control of the ball.

Ruble said that the team hopes to educate young women about breast cancer, honor those who continue to battle the disease and raise some funds along the way.

This is the first time that the volleyball team has participated in a Side-Out Foundation program.

"My mother has breast cancer. It has been a really emotional time. I am all for ‘Dig Pink'," said CSM defensive specialist Gigi Gilmore.

The Hawks have been ranked as high as 20th in the National Junior College Athletic Association Division II volleyball poll this season.

Gilmore said," It feels really good. Through hard work and teamwork, we have maintained our ranking, and I am really proud of the team."