Subscribe to RSSBringing the NAU community closer together, one color at a time
By Stefani Dziawura
During the Oct. 7 soccer game against Sacramento State, junior defender Shawnee Morgan aggressively slide tackles the ball clear of Sacramento’s offense. The game resulted in a tie after two overtimes. (Photo by Jeff Bucher)
The Northern Arizona University (NAU) women’s soccer team hosted Sacramento State on Sunday for its annual Think Pink game, and for one player this color and its purpose hits close to home.
Sophomore midfielder Mary Harrah and the rest of the Lumberjacks wore pink sweatbands and incorporated other pink accessories into their uniforms.
“We get people aware of breast cancer and just spread the word to have people become more aware of it,” Harrah said.
By wearing pink, Harrah is not only supporting the cause as a whole, but also someone in particular who is very near and dear to her.
“My aunt had breast cancer. She survived it, but she is still fighting,” Harrah said. “Breast cancer awareness month means a lot to me, so whenever we do this game it’s a big deal.”
Harrah shows her support for the cause both on and off the field. In her hometown of San Diego, she has participated in the Susan G. Komen 3-Day breast cancer walk three times.
“You walk 60 miles in three days. It is an amazing experience,” Harrah said. “It’s hard, but it’s one of the most amazing things I’ve ever done.”
Breast cancer hits home for many players on the field, as well as many fans that came to watch the game.
“I am not the biggest sports fan, but when it comes to breast cancer, I am the biggest supporter,” said NAU senior Leah Flatness. “Knowing that NAU is doing something to bring awareness makes me more inclined to come support them, and I’m glad I did.”
Flatness’ mother was diagnosed with breast cancer three weeks ago, and she came to watch and support the cause along with her school’s team.
Head coach Andre Luciano said it is important to show their team cares and that they are doing everything to expose the whole community as to what the campaign is all about.
“Anything we can do to raise money and raise awareness is very important,” Luciano said. “All of us have known some victims of it at some point. I have a family member that has, not breast cancer, but has cancer. And as for any sort of cancer, it’s a disease that we can hopefully in some point find a cure for.”
The pinked-out team won support for the cause, but could not grasp a win in the game. The Lady Jacks landed a 0–0 tie against Sacramento State after 110:00 minutes of play.
