As a part of Turn It Gold’s Athletic Activism campaign, the Ohio University football program set the bar high this year. On September 12, 2015, they showed everyone how they win on the field as they defeated the Marshall Thundering Herd in the rivalry Battle for the Bell game. This game was an even bigger win for the childhood cancer community as sports spectators for each team witnessed the prominent display of Gold through the stadium. From the gold ribbons on the players helmets, to the ribbons painted on the field, and the banners in the president’s box, and even goal posts pads, this was a bold statement from Ohio University signaling their support to increase awareness and funding for improved research and advanced treatments for all childhood cancers. As the team and staff are still digesting the victory with the ringing Bell, their hearts are ringing even louder knowing they played a greater role that day in supporting the child cancer community and are making a real difference. Please join me in thanking all of those participants who made this effort a huge success and please enjoy the following heartfelt testimonials from the staff and athletes:
Staff
“There can’t be a better cause than to fight cancer and certainly pediatric cancer. We were honored to play a role in the Turn It Gold campaign and partner with Turn It Gold. Our players, coaches, and everyone involved understood the importance of this project” – Coach Frank Solich, Head Coach
“It was such an honor to work with Turn It Gold and be the first school to participate in its athletic activism program. It was an amazing experience being able to support such a great cause. We are looking forward to continuing our work together!” – Chris Rodgers, Director of Football Operations
“In life, like in football, it is usually the smallest things that make the biggest difference. It was humbling for our equipment staff to have the opportunity to play a small role in helping Turn It Gold bring awareness to their important mission and vision!” – Matt Morton, Director of Equipment
“As a father, raising awareness for childhood cancer touches home. By increasing awareness and funding, we can strive to eradicate childhood cancers and reduce the suffering of many. The Bobcats are proud to partner with Turn It Gold in these efforts.” – Michael George, Director of Player Personnel and High School Relations
“It was uplifting and deeply meaningful to see my friends, role models, and entire university come together to support the children, families, and medical professionals who battle cancer every day of their lives” – Dan Maloney, Student Assistant for the Defensive Line, Cancer Survivor
“As the father of two young children, I cannot even begin to imagine what parents go through when their child has cancer. More awareness and funding is an absolute must, which Turn It Gold is doing. We are honored to work alongside them.” – Scott Isphording, Quarterback Coach and Co-Offensive Coordinator
Athletes
“The Going Gold game was very impactful for me because it helped to give a deeper meaning to why I was playing. To be given the opportunity to help raise awareness for childhood cancer is truly a privilege and an opportunity that should never be overlooked. It feels amazing and inspiring to be able to take part in the fight against childhood cancer” – Josiah Yazdani, Kicker
“It is great to be a part of something such as the game and “Going Gold” to raise awareness for an amazing cause and support all the children fighting.” – Lucas Powell, Offensive Line
“It was awesome seeing all the gold and to have our whole team raising awareness for childhood cancer and supporting the families and children that it affects” – Casey Sayles, Defensive Line
“It was impactful for me because not only was the rivalry game a battle for the bell, it represented a fight for a cause across the nation—childhood cancer.” – Nate Carpenter, Safety
“Our participation shows that we support the health of children in this world” – Jovon Johnson, Linebacker
“This game allowed me to spread awareness amongst others about a great cause” – Derrius Vick, Quarterback
