Moon Township, Pa. - Last Friday was a productive one for the Robert Morris University women's lacrosse team, as it picked up a
12-10 victory at Niagara in the first half of what became a two-game weekend sweep through western New York.
More importantly, the Colonials were also pleased to join with Niagara in participating in a "Pink Game" to benefit breast cancer awareness, research and treatment. At halftime, the Purple Eagles honored RMU freshman goalie
Mackenzie Duffy's mother Nancy, who has been battling cancer for the past several months.
"We were touched that Niagara recognized Mrs. Duffy," said RMU head coach
Katy Phillips. "Nancy has been a constant source of inspiration for our team and staff this year. Her drive, passion and fight are qualities that our players strive to embody."
Nancy Duffy made the trip to Niagara to take part in the event, much like she traveled to Pittsburgh last fall when the Colonials organized
their own pink-themed contest against Duquesne at Joe Walton Stadium.
"We were honored to have Mrs. Duffy was a part of our day," said Niagara head coach Wendy Stone. "We wholeheartedly support her and her family's fight, and we wanted to honor her dogged effort."
Stone said last Friday's game raised over $2,000, which will go to the Susan B. Komen Foundation. It was entirely organized and run by the Niagara student-athletes, a tradition that started during the 2014 season. Niagara approached RMU coaches Phillips and
Katrina Silva last fall about partnering with them.
"The lacrosse community is very tight-knit," Stone said. "We look out for each other and know that it could have been any one of us in Mackenzie's and Mrs. Duffy's shoes."The Colonials will wrap up their non-conference schedule this Sunday at Joe Walton Stadium, as Campbell pays a visit to Moon Township. First draw is scheduled for noon.
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