CofC Softball Raises Over $1,300 with ‘Beat Cancer with a Bat’

CHARLESTON, SC March 20, 2013 – The College of Charleston softball team hosted its ‘Beat Cancer with a Bat’ function on Saturday and the event was a resounding success, drawing over $1,300 in donations to Komen Lowcountry.

The Cougars, who were clad in special-edition pink jerseys for Saturday’s doubleheader, generated the majority of the proceeds by auctioning off their game-worn jerseys. Around the concourse, fans placed bids on their favorite players’ jerseys, knowing the money was going to an amazing cause.

“Pink Day was quite a remarkable day,” said head coach Shelly Hoerner. “Our emotions were very high throughout our Cougar family, but we stayed composed throughout the course of the day. I am so proud of my team that they came together as one and were there for their teammates when they needed it most. The game of softball has brought this group together to share in the good times and bad times, and I feel they understand the real meaning of life, especially when we go through events like these.

“I would like to express my sincere gratitude to our entire Cougar softball family and Charleston community for the wonderful support of our Pink Day. Your contribution to helping find an eventual cure is greatly appreciated.”

The pink was on full display Saturday, from the CofC logo behind home plate to the lines of the coaches’ boxes, and the bases were even painted pink as well.

In an emotional pregame ceremony, CofC players Hope Klicker’s (Walla Walla, Wash.) and Kelsey Hodgson’s (Woodstock, Ga.) parents were honored for their exemplary courage in battling this terrible disease.

Allan Hodgson, father to Kelsey Hodgson, toed the chalk of the third baseline with the Cougars, and stood next to his daughter as the starting lineups were announced. Klicker’s mother, Charlotte Klicker, threw out the game’s first pitch, and Hope was behind the plate to catch it.

“Pink Day was probably one of the most exciting days of my college career,” said Hope Klicker. “Having my mom throw me the first pitch was so meaningful. I couldn’t help but smile and look on to her as she prepared to throw me the pitch! I’m so proud of her for everything she’s been through. She’s a true fighter!”

“We had a lot of fun with Pink Day,” said Kelsey Hodgson, “but it was also great to be playing for a cause that has affected so many of us. I am very blessed to have a Cougar family that provides unconditional love and support.”

Contributing to the success of the day was the Cougars’ performance on the field. Behind explosive offense and dominant pitching, the Cougars swept the afternoon doubleheader with 7-3 and 4-3 victories over Elon.

The Cougars return to the field this weekend to play host to Georgia Southern in a three-game series featuring two teams at the top the Southern Conference. They will play a doubleheader on Saturday, March 23 and single-game series conclusion on Sunday, March 24. First pitch is slated for 1 p.m. on both days.