High school football is a fall staple across the country. On September 15, the students at Nordonia High School turned the tables, giving the women a chance to show off their football skills during the 2nd Annual Powder Puff Flag Football Game. The game not only brought out the fans but also raised nearly $1,500 for University Hospitals Rainbow Babies & Children’s Angie Fowler Adolescent & Young Adult Cancer Institute.

The event was a joint effort between the school’s National Honor Society (NHS) and Student Council. Students paid $5 for a chance to play under the lights at Boliantz Stadium, and there was a $5 charge to watch the action.

This year’s designated charity felt especially meaningful for Senior Katie Gironda, NHS historian and social media coordinator.

“We have a family friend whose 5-year-old daughter was just diagnosed with a rare type of brain tumor," shared Katie. "I thought it was a great idea for us to focus on childhood cancer awareness. Once you see the kind of impact this diagnosis has on a family, you really want to try and help.”

“We are always looking for ways to help our local community,” said Melissa McClelland, teacher and NHS advisor. “And we knew that UH and Rainbow have helped or touched so many of our own community members.”

“It’s so important for us to focus on doing good for the community, and it really helps us put things into perspective,” said Morgan Root, senior and NHS secretary. “Even though we don’t have cancer, we can do something to help others who are dealing with this diagnosis.”

Carter Bretz, senior and NHS vice president, spends his free time volunteering in the oncology unit of a local children’s hospital. “Being able to help give something back to improve their lives is so meaningful. I’ve seen first-hand the impact donations can make.”

Claire Pouliot, senior and Student Council member, not only helped organize the event, but also played. She said it was definitely rewarding as a player to know they were raising money for such a good cause. She anticipates the event will only grow bigger in the years to come.

Connor St. George, senior and NHS president, agrees. “We are always striving to do better than before, raise more money than before. This was one of our first events of the year, and to have it be so successful was really gratifying.”

Micah Buxton, senior and Student Council member, hopes the underclassmen see the success and improve upon it. “I want this event to get even bigger and raise even more money in the future.” Melanie Szugy, senior and NHS treasurer, added, “This is a great legacy for the senior class.”