Jesuit’s varsity Rugby team is no stranger to the spotlight. The team’s raw talent and dominating wins have solidified its distinguished reputation as one of the best high school rugby teams in the nation. Although the group has worked hard for such recognition, our rugby program continues to separate itself from the pack by fulfilling the “Man for Others” ideal on and off the field.
On Friday, February 3, 2012, at the Jesuit Stadium, the Jesuit Rangers rugby team will continue a tradition and strut on to the turf in all-pink uniforms. Pink is symbolically the color for breast cancer awareness, and Jesuit will sport pink uniforms in recognition of World Cancer Day.
Just like last year, Friday night’s game will be dedicated specifically to cancer survivors and their families. “My personal experience [with cancer] stems from family and friends,” says rugby coach Anthony Mattacchione. “My grandfather, a close cousin, my godfather, and my mother-in-law Gwendolyn Nicholson all suffered with cancer. This disease effects everyone and I’ve seen what it does to families and friends who feel hopeless.”
The Jesuit rugby team will be wearing pink this Friday to raise funds for programs that support the development and research of cancer cures, including Tackling Cancer Foundation, Vanguard Cancer Centers, and Any Baby Can Foundation. “Cancer is such a huge issue in our society as it claims many lives each year,” said captain Brendan Metcalf ’12. “I consider it a tremendous honor to be playing for [my grandmother] who is a survivor, and any other cancer survivors.”
This game is much more than simply the first match of the season for Jesuit’s rugby team. The significant game holds a different significance for every single player on the team and every single fan that comes in support. Brilliantly said, “This is not a publicity stunt, nor is it a superficial adherence to the Jesuit mission or profile,” said English teacher and rugby coach Austin Ryan. “Amidst all the turmoil that this disease causes, we want to express that we embrace life and that we use this vessel of a rugby match to capture the bliss, brotherhood, and grace of life not only for ourselves, but for others.”
Donations to support the cancer cause will be accepted before and during the rugby match. Pink game jerseys will be auctioned off at the end of the match with partial proceeds benefitting the Tackling Cancer Foundation.
Come out this Friday at 7 p.m. to support the Jesuit rugby team and promote the fight against cancer.
