Mainland High School Lacrosse Plays For Charity

Additional Information

The Mainland Regional High School boys lacrosse team will play for more than just a win Friday.  The Mustangs also will be playing for a cause when they host Oakcrest in the HEADstrong charity game at 7 p.m. on the football field. The HEADstrong Foundation was created by Nicholas Colleluori of Holmes, Pa. Colleluori played lacrosse at Ridley High School and Hofstra University. After starting in all 16 games his freshman year at Hofstra, Colleluori was diagnosed with blood cancer. He battled cancer for 14 months and passed away in November 2006.  During his fight, Colleluori created the foundation to raise awareness and help others battling the disease.

The Mustangs were looking for a way to give back this season and sophomore Brendan Hoelker's mother, Tiffany Hoelker, heard about the foundation from summer tournaments in which her son participated.  No admission will be charged, but donations will be accepted and all proceeds from concession sales will be donated to HEADstrong. The Mustangs' developing supporting cast this season includes Chris Sheldon, Ryan Swenson and Brad Meister. The Mustangs also have a tight defense, and junior Daulton Sykora has replaced his graduated brother, Ricky, at goaltender.

Mainland will face an Oakcrest team (4-1) that is stronger and more disciplined than it was last season, according to new Falcons coach Brett Hoffecker.

Mainland hopes that the HEADstrong cause, its youth and drive will help lead it to victory on the special night.