Jackson McHaney is an ASU Cronkite School of Journalism Student assigned to cover Valley Christian High School for AZPreps365.com 

 

Four years ago, Robert Davies and his wife Michelle wanted to help raise cancer awareness. Michelle is a 12-year cancer survivor. Their daughter, now senior captain and libero Megan Davies, provided an outlet at Valley Christian. 

After discussing with the coach and school, Dig for the Cure premiered in Davies’ sophomore year on the volleyball team.The third event is Wednesday, and the school is hoping to achieve a goal of $2,500 or more donated after two successful years. 

Denise McClain, mother of junior Macy, also helps run the event. Macy’s grandma passed away from breast cancer recently.

This ignites their passion to be involved with the movement and to support others going through similar struggles. “It’s really special to think that we can do something for this Valley Christian team,” said McClain. “We’re doing this to spread awareness and show respect to people who have survived the battle, and even those who lost the battle as well.” 

Robert Davies got this event started not only to support his wife, but so others in the area would support local cancer survivors and families. “Every year I find and meet new people that are affected by cancer,” said Robert. 

Before the varsity game starts, there is a cancer walk to kickoff the event and recognize those in attendance affected by some form of the disease. The participants walk one end of the gym to the other in front of the crowd to show appreciation. 

“Volleyball is a team sport and so is life,” said Megan. 

“I think it’ll be packed,” said McClain. “The kids have made a big push about it. Everyone wears pink to cheer on the team and there’s just a whole different energy about this game compared to the regular ones.” 

Valley Christian is undefeated on Dig for the Cure Night. 

Last year’s Dig for the Cure Night raised $1,500. “It may seem like a small amount of money, but it makes a huge impact in the community,” said McClain. 

The Trojans wear pink on the designated night. “Although it’s October, which has been breast cancer awareness month traditionally, the girls wear pink to support all types of cancer. We don’t specify or focus on any one type,” said Robert. 

Guests donate to HonorHealth’s Virginia G. Piper Cancer Center in the local community. The organization boasts a 100 percent money to patient rate. 

In lieu of an entry fee at the games, the school accepts donations and also offers a free gift to guests. “We want to give out something to the community,” said Robert Davies. “Even the other team’s fans. We’re trying to show our love to the people around us and show awareness to everyone that attends. That way, when people go home, they can look at it and remember what’s going on.”  

Valley Christian is also adding a “Digathon” to this year's fundraiser. Guests can pledge anywhere between $0.01 and $100 per dig. In an average game there can be anywhere between 5-10 digs per game. 

Another school Valley Christian played in a past Dig for the Cure game, Odyssey Institute in Buckeye, Arizona, liked the event so much the school is making efforts to replicate it.

“I pray this event becomes a tradition after I leave Valley Christian,” said Megan Davies. “This is a game that everyone in our community looks forward to. The impact our volleyball program can have in the lives of survivors, co-survivors and current cancer patients is incredible.”

Feel free to donate below. 

https://valleychristianaz.org/dig/