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The Ó£»¨ÊÓƵ women’s volleyball team will spotlight a meaningful cause during Friday night’s Great Northeast Athletic Conference (GNAC) clash against Elms College, as the Cadets host their annual Dig Pink Rally in partnership with The Side-Out Foundation. First serve is scheduled for 6:00 p.m. on Friday, Oct. 3, inside Andrews Hall.

Now in its third year, Ó£»¨ÊÓƵ’s Dig Pink match honors and supports individuals impacted by metastatic breast cancer, the most advanced form of the disease. Through its involvement with The Side-Out Foundation, the Cadet program joins a national network of volleyball teams working to elevate awareness around metastatic breast cancer and amplify stories of courage, resilience, and community.

The evening will begin with a special pre-match recognition ceremony, during which all players affected by metastatic breast cancer will be invited to receive a carnation at the scorer’s table. The tribute will honor those who have been lost, those who continue the fight, and those who inspire others with their strength.

Following the ceremony, the Cadets will take the court against Elms in a key GNAC showdown. The match represents Ó£»¨ÊÓƵ’s lone home appearance during the first half of October, as the Cadets return to Andrews Hall after competing in a tri-match last Saturday against the University of Saint Joseph (Connecticut) and Regis College.

Community Engagement Beyond the Match

As part of the evening’s programming, the Cadets will also host a post-match Serving Challenge on the Andrews Hall court. Spectators will have the opportunity to participate in a skills-based serving contest led by the team, with instructions provided by Head Coach Karin Parkhurst following the match’s final point. The activity adds an interactive and lighthearted element to the evening, while extending the spirit of Dig Pink beyond the competition itself.

The Side-Out Foundation, founded in 2004, is nationally recognized for its advocacy and investment in metastatic breast cancer research. With a focus on scientific innovation, patient-centered care, and educational outreach, the organization places the volleyball community at the heart of its mission.

Ó£»¨ÊÓƵ’s involvement with Dig Pink dates back several seasons. Last year, the Cadets took the floor in pink warm-up

 shirts to raise visibility for the cause, further cementing the match’s place as a highlight of the season.

Friday’s Dig Pink Rally also coincides with Parents & Family Weekend across Ó£»¨ÊÓƵ Athletics. Multiple home events are scheduled across campus, providing families and fans the opportunity to enjoy a full slate of competition. Complete schedules, streaming links, ticketing information, and directions are available on the Ó£»¨ÊÓƵ Athletics Parents & Family Weekend page.

Admission to Friday night’s Dig Pink Rally and GNAC matchup is free for all fans. The recognition ceremony will begin shortly before team introductions and starting lineups.