Harborfields Basketball Teams Rally For Kids Battling Cancer

GREENLAWN, NY — The Harborfields community came together in a powerful show of unity and compassion during this year’s Coaches vs. Cancer basketball games, where both the boys and girls varsity teams hosted events under a shared mission: supporting children and families impacted by cancer while celebrating the strength of those fighting it.

The boys' varsity basketball team held its Coaches vs. Cancer game on Jan. 29, honoring Washington Drive first grader Ariella and her family. Ariella was born with neuroblastoma, a rare cancer that affected both of her adrenal glands. For the first two years of her life, she underwent intensive treatment at Memorial Sloan Kettering and Cohen Children’s Hospital during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. After two long and challenging years, Ariella was declared cancer-free. Now 6 years old, she stands as a symbol of resilience, courage, and hope for the Harborfields community.

The girls' varsity Coaches vs. Cancer game, held Jan. 27, was equally meaningful as the team welcomed honorary captain Belle. Belle was diagnosed with alveolar rhabdomyosarcoma in her left leg and underwent a rotationplasty amputation. Following a recent relapse that required additional surgery on her arm, Belle is now cancer-free and continues to live each day with remarkable strength and an inspiring smile. Her perseverance and positivity left a lasting impact on those in attendance.

In addition to raising awareness, students organized bracelet and bake sales and sold raffle tickets to raise funds for cancer-related causes. Student-athletes, coaches, team parents, the Booster Club, Harborfields Stand Up Strong club, HF Youth Cheer, and community partners all contributed to the events.

“Our student-athletes are an incredible example of what education-based athletics represent,” said Robert Franco, Harborfields Director of Health, Physical Education, and Athletics. “They consistently demonstrate an exceptional work ethic on the fields, courts, and mats, while showing the same, if not greater, commitment off the playing field by raising awareness and support for meaningful causes. I couldn’t be prouder of our coaches and students.”