Hailie Wilson hit a home run and North collected six more extra-base hits in a 13-7 win at Mentor on Thursday.
However, more important than the Wilson bomb or exciting rallies was the fact both teams combined to raise over $800 in their Strikeout Cancer fundraiser.
“We all know someone affected by cancer, so if we can do something like dedicate a game and help show support for those people battling this disease and contribute financially, I think that’s something we should all be very proud of,” said Mentor coach Jo Bondra. “A game is just a game, but raising awareness for a cause is very special and I’m so thankful for everyone around us who help put it together. Today we played for Team Joey, a young boy who has been in a battle since he was 18 months old and just relapsed in his recovery. That’s what this is all about, playing for something more.”
Joey was diagnosed with pre-B-Cell Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia in October 2018 when he was just 18 months old. His initial treatment was supposed to last about 2 ½ years but just two weeks before that end date was met it was discovered he had a relapse in his central nervous system.
He currently is in remission again following the first month of his relapse treatment. The plan is for Joey to receive chemotherapy and radiation for approximately a year and a half.
Joey and his family are active participants in the Youngstown Relay for Life, which will take place on April 17. Their goal is to raise $15,000 for Childhood Cancer. Click here to donate.
Wilson finished the game 3-for-5 with three runs scored and she knocked in two runs. Her sixth-inning home run gave the Rangers a lead they would not relinquish.
“The score was tied and I knew I had to come up big for my team,” Wilson said. “The ball was pitched on the inside middle and I drove it to left-center. It felt great to take the lead for my team.”
Emily Zaleski, Jess Dodd, Julianna Augusta, Alyssa McPeek, and Madilyn Cicero all had two hits for the Rangers, who improved to 7-1 on the year.
Allie Loparo and Izzy Coode each led the Cardinals with two hits. Bella Carcioppolo, Abby Haydu, and Adrianna Sluga each doubled in the game.
. @MentorAthletics coach Jo Bondra talks about a loss to @northrangers today. pic.twitter.com/kjYi5PkHkP
— News-Herald preps (@NHPreps) April 16, 2021
Coach Taylor Braddock of @northrangers talks about her team’s aggressive approach after a win over mentor today pic.twitter.com/YyNgK39h8E
— News-Herald preps (@NHPreps) April 15, 2021
