As the Blue Devils closed out the second set, the real reason behind the Pink Out game became apparent. The varsity, JV and freshman teams lined the court forming the annual tunnel for survivors. As the names of those who lost their lives to breast cancer were announced, a tone of remembrance filled the gym, accompanied by feelings of hope as the names of survivors followed while running through the tunnel in celebration.
With the stands packed with fans creating a sea of pink, the Blue Devils demolished Sparta, winning in 2 sets with the first set being 25-13 and the second 25-14.
The Blue Devils started the first set off strong, going on a 5-0 run, only giving up a few points. Sparta struggled to keep up with Westfield’s offense as the first set ended with a 12-point differential.
Senior co-captain Lillian Wood said, “Today’s a big day for the program, so we all wanted to have fun and support a good cause and just do our best and start off strong.”
Senior captain Lillian Wood and fellow senior captain Annelise Bonn’s mothers helped organize the day alongside head coach Beverly Torok. Extensive planning went into coordinating the event including building committees, getting sponsors to support the team and aiding with the set-up of the gym. All proceeds from the event went to Pathways, a resource center for women’s cancer support located in Summit, NJ.
Each team within the girls volleyball program has participated in various fundraising events such as soliciting donations, an Applebee’s breakfast, selling t-shirts and freshmen flocking, where plastic flamingos are placed throughout the lawns of the freshman team.
“I’m proud that we have been able to keep the tradition of Pink Out going. It’s been 17 years, and the girls rally around [the game], and, as you can see [with] how many people came through the tunnel. [Breast cancer] has touched many people’s lives so it’s meaningful that we [are able to make] a difference,” Torok said. “I love that it’s become a schoolwide program that others have taken part in. The cheerleaders and football team contributed to our cause as well as the community service club.”
With this win over Sparta, Westfield improves its record to 19-0 on the season. They look to continue their undefeated streak as they close out their regular season this week against GL and Old Bridge, a rematch of the Group 4 State Final from last year.
“It’s a challenge to [maintain inner drive while undefeated]. It’s not that we haven’t had a competitive schedule. Not all our games have been easy. Some of them have been close [sets] like 25-23. We just [need to] keep focusing on technique, trying to speed our game up and serve in dangerous places,” Torok said.
