Dickinson College’s Men’s Lacrosse Raises $15k in 15th Annual 24-hour Volleyball-A-Thon

Volleyballathon group photo by dave webster

Photo by Head Coach Dave Webster '88.

Annual event brings Dickinson community together to support a worthy cause

by Ellie Werner '22

Pulling an all nighter usually implies a long night of studying for a test, but on Sept. 24, the Dickinson men’s lacrosse team hosted its 15th annual 24-hour Volleyball-A-Thon fundraiser to support the American Red Cross of Central Pennsylvania.  

The event took place at the sand volleyball court on Louther Street from 5 p.m. on Friday until 5 p.m. on Saturday. Staff members and the team set up tents, brought coolers and had large spotlights placed on either side of the court for their nighttime matches. For those unfamiliar with the tradition, the team separates into what they refer to as “companies” to take on three-hour shifts during the 24-hour period. Each company is large enough to play against a group that signs up for a time slot or any individuals who decide to jump in.  

The event was a huge success, raising $15,661 to assist local families impacted by home fires in Central Pennsylvania.  

“The money we donate to the local Red Cross is the second-largest donation they receive every year. This year we completely shattered our record,” said Jake Giotto '22.  

Not only is the event for a great cause, but it also attracts many Dickinsonians including athletic teams, clubs and Greek organizations—and even administrators step onto the sand for a serve.  

“It is incredibly fun for us because we get to spend time with teammates and also engage with our classmates. Every year the men’s basketball team comes to play us, and it’s always really fun and competitive,” said Teddy Macfarlane '22. 

Considering the event was cancelled last year due to COVID-19, most of the team’s underclassmen had never participated in the event. Now they can understand the hard work and dedication the event requires. Fundraisers like this not only help bond the team but also bring the Dickinson community together.  

Bobby Barrol ’22 summed it up perfectly: “We strive to be the best program in college lacrosse. Volleyball-A-Thon embodies that goal. We want to make an impact on the field and more importantly off it.” 

TAKE THE NEXT STEPS

Published September 30, 2021