Northfield Soccer Players Lace Up For Breast Cancer Research

NORTHFIELD (WCCO) -- For the Northfield High School girls' soccer team, pink is more than just a color. It's helping a soccer player cope with the loss of her mother and, at the same time, is raising money for breast cancer research.

Last year, Haley Bollum's mother, Jean, lost her battle with a rare form of breast cancer. Since then, she and her fellow teammates have raised nearly $35,000 dollars for breast cancer research.

At the high school, maroon and gold colors typically stand out. However, on Thursday night, pink symbolized school pride.

"I think pink's a lot cooler -- especially for this game," said Cassidy Hanzlik, a teammate of Bollum.

Wearing pink has become a way to help Bollum overcome a terrible loss.

"With an illness like that, you can't help her personally," said Bollum.

That's when the team saw an opportunity at their feet.

"We are doing a breast cancer fundraiser. It's called 'Lace for the Cure,'" said Hanzlik.

The goal was to raise money to put 500 Northfield High athletes in pink laces with the symbolic pink ribbon. The fundraising soon spread to lanyards, shirts and even cupcakes.

"This is their thing. They're doing it, we just follow along and help support them," said Sheri Rasmussen, a soccer fan.

For any athlete, a win is always important, but the goal this year is to find a cure for breast cancer. Even the competition is tied to the cause. Farmington and Shakopee athletes are also wearing pink laces.

"So, no matter the outcome of the game, I know we're helping people," said Bollum

In the first year, the team raised more than $11,000. So far, this year they've raised more than $12,000, and think they may reach their goal of $15,000 Thursday night.

The money will go to the Coach Kill Cancer fund, which was set up by University of Minnesota football coach, Jerry Kill.

If you would like to donate, contact Northfield High school.