Dig Pink, the beloved Spartan volleyball tradition and breast cancer awareness fundraiser, will take place on Thursday, October 9 starting at 6:30 p.m for varsity.
The tradition started at WS in 2004 under volleyball coach Rick Dunetz, after his mother was diagnosed with breast cancer. Dunetz then went on to found the Side-Out Foundation, a non-profit organization based out of Fairfax, Virginia, that focuses on supporting patients with metastatic breast cancer and helping them to take control of their lives again.
Senior varsity volleyball captain Nina Schweigert is inspired by the opportunity Dig Pink presents for the team each year.
“We always show up and show out, not only in covering the gym in many, many different shades of pink, but also in how we play, because we know that the fight we put out on the court, is contributing to the fight against breast cancer,” said Schweigert.
Current WS varsity volleyball head coach Stephanie Noriega feels empowered by the message behind Dig Pink and its origins in the WS gymnasium.
“Dig Pink started at WS just over 20 years [ago] and we are proud to be part of the history of this amazing organization that raises awareness and money for breast cancer research and treatment,” said Noriega. “Our Dig Pink event is a highlight of the volleyball season and the most fun night in the Spartan gym. Come out in pink and support the volleyball team!”
Dig Pink is not only important to the WS volleyball organization, but also the wider community. The players find deep meaning in what the Dig Pink game means to others around them.
“To me, Dig Pink means the world. To know that simply by playing the sport that I love, I am able to bring the community together, raise money, and bring hope to those with breast cancer, is an amazing feeling,” said Schweigert. “And I know what I feel is echoed in every single one of my teammates.”
