“Hoops for Hope” to Raise Funds for Breast Cancer Education

Two local high school girls’ basketball teams are putting aside their on-the-court rivalry to help raise awareness of breast cancer.

The Scranton Preparatory School Classics and Abington Heights Lady Comets will meet on the Scranton Prep Saint Francis Xavier Center court on February 4, 2010, for the second annual “Pink Night.” The theme of this year’s event, “Hoops for Hope,” will be celebrated with both a junior varsity game starting at 6 p.m. and a varsity game beginning at 7:15 p.m.

All proceeds from this year’s Pink Night will be used to fund the Northeast Regional Cancer Institute Smart Girls, Wise Women initiative. This multi-generational program will focus on educating girls 12-16 along with their female family and friends of all ages, about breast health and cancer awareness.

“All of the girls are very excited to be a part of this event,” said Margo Opsasnick, Member of the Scranton Prep Boosters Club. “Last year the game was played before a full house and we fully expect the same this year. The “Pink Game” gives the girls the opportunity to have fun while raising money and awareness for a cause which is important to all of us.”

Commemorative pink t-shirts will be sold as a fundraiser before the event. Attendees are invited to purchase a shirt and, like the players who will sport special pink jerseys, wear pink in support of breast cancer awareness.

If you would like additional information about this event or want to purchase a t-shirt, please contact Margo Opsasnick at mopsasnick@deltamedix.com or (570) 947-3541. For information on the Smart Girls, Wise Women program, please contact the Northeast Regional Cancer Institute at (570) 941-7984.

Photo Caption: The Scranton Preparatory School Classics and Abington Heights Lady Comets will take the basketball court on Thursday, February 4th to raise awareness for breast cancer in the second annual “Pink Night” to benefit the Northeast Regional Cancer Institute. Pictured are left to right (kneeling) Kerry Rohrbeck, Lauren Opsasnick, Michelle Egan, Samantha Paolucci, (standing) Ross Macciocco, Maeve Gilhooley, Meghan McDonald, Mariah Deibert, Jamie Montella, and Vince Bucciarelli.