Mantua – Did you know that cancer is the leading cause of death of children by disease? In spite of this startling statistic, you might be surprised to learn that less than four percent of federal funding is dedicated to pediatric cancer research. That’s why Crestwood’s boys and girls soccer teams made it their goal to raise awareness and funds to help. “This is the second year that we have participated in the Go4theGoal fundraiser to combat pediatric cancer,” explained Crestwood soccer player Laurel Fugman.
Through this organization, teams raise money to fund much-needed cancer research. All funds raised will stay in the community. Crestwood’s boys and girls soccer teams, as well as all coaches, participated. Each participant was asked to donate a minimum of $5.00 per person, and was given a pair of gold shoelaces. On the night of their game against Waterloo, everyone laced up to Go4theGoal. During the game, the team also circulated special collection cans throughout the crowd. “We were able to raise $364.00 for the cause,” Fugman beamed. “This year, we chose Akron Children’s Hospital to receive our donation,” she acknowledged.
This is the second consecutive year the girls soccer team has supported this worthy cause. “We plan to make this a tradition,” shared Fugman. “It’s just one of the ways our athletes help give back to the community. Maybe by spreading the word, we will be able to raise even more money next year,” she concluded. To find out more, visit goforthegoal.org.
In addition to their charitable efforts, these young women also excel in the classroom. In fact, the National Soccer Coaches Association of America (NSCAA) recently recognized the team with the 2014-15 High School Team Academic Award. To qualify for this award, the team must have a minimum grade point average of 3.25 for the entire academic year.
“We are so exceptionally proud of the work in the classroom and the results that are produced by our girl’s soccer program,” said Director of Athletics & Activities Bob Dean. “Coach Marc Streem and his staff have shown once again their dedication to the total person and student-athlete. What an incredible honor again to be associated with such high-quality student-athletes who have made our community proud on and off the field.”
The Crestwood High School Girl’s soccer team was one of 398 teams, spread across 51 schools across the country that were recognized for exemplary performance in the classroom during the 2014-15 academic year.
Crestwood ended the regular season with a record of 10-4-2 overall and 8-1-1 in the Portage Trail Conference County Division. They will host the Sectional final on Thursday October 22 at 7 pm at Jack Lambert Stadium, where they will play the winner of the Field versus Ravenna Sectional semi-final.
