The University of Akron Athletics
Zips Softball Going Gold for Pediatric Cancer
September 21 | Softball
AKRON, Ohio – The University of Akron softball team is set to dedicate its Sept. 25 fall exhibition game against Pittsburgh to childhood cancer awareness.
The Zips will wear gold shoelaces and ribbons in support of the fight for childhood cancer. Gold is the color of childhood cancer and with September serving as childhood cancer awareness month.
"Two years ago, I got involved with Camp Quality Ohio and it changed my life. The kids that I've met have taught me what it truly means to be strong, brave, and full of hope," said sophomore first baseman Laura Lakins (Akron, Ohio), whose idea it was to dedicate this game to support pediatric cancer. "Since day one of Camp Quality, I have made it a goal of mine to spread as much awareness as possible. It's great to see our team come together and show support for the cause. I hope to see a lot of people supporting the Zips and going gold on Sunday."
The Akron softball team is encouraging those fighting childhood cancer or those who have fought the battle to attend the game and be recognized for their strength and determination they have shown throughout their battle.
"We are happy to wear gold in Sunday in honor of childhood cancer month. We have been touched by the struggles and strength of the children we have met through Project Ed Bear and our visit to Akron Children's Hospital," said head coach Julie Jones. "The courage and strength these kids and their families show is amazing and we honor their fight, lives and survival. Our program and alumni are forever grateful to Bill and Laura Ward for sharing their daughter Olivia with us. Olivia fought the good fight and is our angel. We are all better people because of her and her parents."
The Zips will welcome an honorary bat girl, Eva. She is a pediatric cancer survivor who met Lakins this summer at Camp Quality.
To donate to the cause, go to www.Projectedbear.com
