This year instead of raising money to help with Breast Cancer research the Murray State volleyball team decided to start Swinging to Eliminate Cancer to help raise funds for a cause that affected the team. The Racers came together and raised $2,572.14 for the National Brain Tumor Society.
“I am thrilled that we were able to raise so much money for a worthy cause,” said head coach David Schwepker. “Once again the community has stepped up and helped out to help, this time to give the National Brain Tumor Society to help find a cure.”
The cause hits home for MSU volleyball, because head coach David Schwepker’s wife, Kendra, was diagnosed with a brain tumor in 2004. The Schwepker’s received great support from the local community to help them with medical bills and with everyday chores while Kendra was first getting treatment and they wanted to help others going through the same thing.
The team raised funds through November as either flat donations or as a per attack attempt donation. Attack attempts were totals during the Nov. 14 and 15 matches in Racer Arena and totaled 507. From those donations MSU raised over $500 and received over $2000 in flat donations that included online donations at www.firstgiving.com/msuvolleyball.
The local community also got behind the Racers efforts, as The Big Apple Café hosted a Rebate Night. The team went to the restaurant for part of the night to help refill drinks and talk to customers. That night MSU raised $260 dollars, including $100 from the rebate night and $160 in donations from Big Apple customers.
The Racers plan on continuing the fundraiser next year and for many years to come to help the National Brain Tumor Society find a cure for the disease that affects so many American citizens.