Cancer is a challenging topic to address, often leaving us unsure of where to begin. However, at the University of York our sports community has united to make a difference. Athletes and enthusiasts alike have worked, played and come together to collaborate in raising awareness for Breast Cancer, a disease that has profoundly impacted countless lives.
Breast Cancer Awareness month is observed every October, serving as an annual campaign to emphasise the importance of early detection and to promote funding for research. Here at York, our sports communities have stepped up in remarkable ways, with student-led teams coming together to support the fight against Breast Cancer.
We want to highlight the amazing work our diverse sports communities do here at York and there is no better place to start than Vanbrugh College. Each year Vanbrugh organises a mixed charity tournament across its entire sports community, with 8 teams competing head to head in netball. A standout match is always Vanbrugh Netball versus Vanbrugh Rugby, which delivers a game that never disappoints. This year, Vanbrugh Netball claimed a 20-15 victory, breaking the rugby team’s winning streak after several years of charitable competition. The funds raised from the event were donated to several breast cancer awareness charities, including Pink Ribbon, CoppaFeel, and Breast Cancer Now.
What is truly remarkable about Vanbrugh College’s efforts is how they balance the gravity of the cause with a fun and inclusive atmosphere. The event is a celebration, allowing society members to both watch and get involved. It also boasts the unique quality of the chance to see rugby players sporting netball dresses! Last year, the entire Vanbrugh sports community also took part in an impressive challenge — running, cycling, swimming, or walking a combined total of 1,000 kilometres, symbolising the 1,000 lives lost each month to breast cancer. It is a powerful way to raise awareness while creating a universal community spirit.
Vanbrugh College Netball President Charlotte Knight emphasised the significance of their efforts, stating, “As a women’s sport, it’s especially important for us to use this platform to raise awareness and support the cause. This issue is particularly close to our hearts, as we were deeply impacted by the loss of one of our former captains, Eleanor Upham, whose mother died of Breast Cancer in 2023.” Her words highlight the profound personal connection that drives their commitment to this crucial cause. This shows how Breast Cancer affects not only individuals but also the lives of those around them, often in ways we may not even realise.
But, it’s not just Vanbrugh. Another college which has since its’ inception fundraised for Breast Cancer Now and Cancer Research UK was Halifax Women’s Football. Their president Jess Kennedy says that Breast Cancer has “a special place” in their hearts. “This commitment became even more personal for us when, in the summer of 2023, my own mum was diagnosed with breast cancer.”
“Last year, as social secretary, I helped ensure HCWFC joined Halifax Netball and Rugby in their annual charity social. We raised around £200 through activities like selling paint for pink handprints on white shirts - which put an emphasis on checking yourself for any abnormalities, face glitter, cakes, and pink punch. Inspired by that success, this year we brought in the Halifax Men’s Football Club and expanded our efforts, introducing a pay-to-play beer pong tournament. The night was a huge success with about 90 people attending, and together, we raised over £1,000—more than double our initial goal.”
She went on to praise the commitment of her own college to the cause has been incredible. “The enthusiasm and collaboration across clubs have been incredible, and events like these unite us in supporting a cause that affects so many. Breast cancer awareness is deeply meaningful for HCWFC, and as we continue to grow, we’re committed to raising even more for this crucial cause. I couldn’t be prouder of everyone’s efforts and the sense of community that drives us forward.”
Sport possesses a unique quality to create a community and unite people around a wider cause. It is truly easy to connect sport and charity, embodying the spirit of helping one another for the greater good. Whether it is wearing pink to training like Langwith Netball Club, participating in charity matches like Goodricke Netball and Football, or engaging in events like “Boogie for Boobies” where Vanbrugh Women’s Football danced for 24 hours on a live stream to raise funds. These activities embody the power of sport to inspire change.
Breast Cancer is becoming increasingly common, with women now facing a 1 in 8 chance of being at risk. When we come together, every piece of participation and every donation contributes to addressing a much larger issue. So, grab your pink ribbons, stay proactive, donate where you can - and never forget to check.
