As someone who was brand new to Tonka as a freshman, it has always impressed me how giving back is such an integral part of our school and community. This year, it is even working its way into our homecoming festivities and the football game. Paul Herbes, one of the varsity football captains, says “Even at homecoming, one of the most important games of the year, which is dedicated to the school, the students, and the alumni, we take time to make sure what is truly important that being the willingness to help those in need.” Every player on the field tonight is affected by cancer somehow and they are coming together with 150 other teams in the state to tackle cancer.

The Minnesota football coaches association started this fund for the Randy Shaver Cancer Research and Community Fund. Last year they raised $121,000 to support doctors at the U of M in their research to help find a cure. This year, we can all help tackle cancer to raise their goal of $200,000. Tonight at the game all of us will have the chance to donate and support our team and a great cause!

This disease affects everyone and we can come together with all of our Tonka Pride to represent our school and do our part to raise money for cancer research. Of course beating Hopkins tonight would be great, but first let’s focus on giving back in Tonka style. Go Skippers!

We can all help tackle cancer, Minnetonka, so give what you can and support our team tonight!