As I travel home for Spring Break, I can’t help but reflect on a game we played against Williston Northampton to close out the 2025 hockey season. They beat us pretty badly and even though we lost, I walked away from that game with a certain level of respect for their team and their school.
When we hit the ice, the Williston players were wearing bright pink jerseys. They were playing in honor of Elise Ollmann-Kahle, a Williston student who passed away from cancer and we were able to share in their respect through a moment of silence before the singing of the national anthem. There were signs bearing her name posted around the glass. I’ve written about “pink out” sporting events before, but seeing a team dedicate a game specifically to someone they knew and lost was powerful. I didn’t know Elise personally, but after learning about her, I wish I had. She was the kind of person who left an impact on everyone around her. She was strong, creative, and passionate, and she made a difference in her community.
The senior class at Williston has gone beyond just wearing pink jerseys. They’ve also started a scholarship in Elise’s name to help future students who share her love of learning. It’s inspiring to see a school turn grief into something positive and lasting. It shows that even high school students can make a real difference.
As someone who writes about ways to raise awareness for cancer, I couldn’t let this go unnoticed. Williston Northampton isn’t just talking about making a difference, they’re taking action, and that’s inspiring.
Cancer affects so many people, it’s easy to feel powerless against it. Experiences like this prove that small acts, whether it’s wearing a pink jersey, raising money, or just sharing someone’s story can make a big impact.
To the Williston Northampton varsity ice-hockey team: Thank you for setting an example and for showing that sports can be about more than just competition. While we have the full intention and promise of beating you the next time we meet, we all left that game reminded that what we do off the ice is just as important as what we do on it.
SiCo for a Cure 