Players from various different basketball teams around the New York area donned pink garb as they competed in the 16th annual Coaches vs Cancer High School Basketball Classic. The event was held at Fieldston from January 31-February 1. Both Boys’ and Girls’ teams from within the Ivy Prep League, which consists of Hackley, Horace Mann, Poly Prep, Trinity, Dalton, Collegiate, Riverdale and Fieldston. competed in the tournament. In its beginning in 1994, the Coaches vs Cancer Classic was only held on select college campuses around the country. However, as it grew, it was eventually brought to the high school level by Ray Barile, perennial coach and Associate Director of Athletics at Horace Mann.

All of the funds generated by the event benefit the American Cancer Society. Funds were mainly generated through ticket sales to the games and bake sales. The Coaches vs Cancer program is a national collaboration between the the American Cancer Society and the National Association of Basketball Coaches.

The initiative aims to make a nationwide difference in the everlasting fight against cancer. The program looks both to increase cancer awareness and to promote safer and healthier living for all.  According to cancer.org, over the past 22 years, the American Cancer Society Coaches vs Cancer initiative has raised an astounding $87 million.  Thanks to the Society’s contributions, there has been a 20% decline in cancer death rates in the US over the past 24 years.

George Santangelo, a captain and varsity starter on this years’ Boys Varsity Basketball team, said he was, “honored to compete in such a prestigious event.” George is a senior who has been able to compete in the Coaches vs Cancer Classic throughout his high school career. “It’s an amazing opportunity really,” George said. “Unfortunately, so many people live their lives with a touch of cancer.  Being able to play basketball which is something I already love, when I know it is for a greater cause, really adds something special to it all.”