Source: The Heights (Boston College independent student newspaper)
This weekend, the Boston College men’s and women’s club lacrosse teams will be facing off against the University of Pittsburgh and Northeastern University in a doubleheader to benefit cystic fibrosis.
CF is a fatal genetic disease that affects the lung and digestive system. The disease causes abnormal amounts of mucus to be generated, which both clogs the lungs and blocks the pancreas, preventing enzymes from breaking down and absorbing food. Today, CF affects about 30,000 children and adults in America.
The funds raised from this double-header will be donated to the Boomer Esiason Foundation (BEF) and the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation (CFF), two leading charities in the fight against CF.
In the 1950s it was rare for children with CF to live past elementary school, however, thanks to the work of charities like BEF and CFF, CF patients today frequently live into their 30s and 40s.
CF is a cause that is especially close to the club lacrosse family at BC. Numerous players are close to individuals afflicted with the disease and have witnessed its affects firsthand. After planning for the last few months, both teams are hoping to kickoff Marathon Monday weekend with a strong showing at both the women’s game at 5 p.m. and the men’s game immediately after (7 p.m).
For the men’s lacrosse team, this game is also a Top 20 matchup.
“Last week we had an excellent team victory against Michigan State,” said junior Kyle Ostroff. “Our attitude, from the bench to the starters on the field, has been superb all season. We’re excited to start our home schedule off with a big win against the Panthers.”
The Eagles hope a win against Pittsburgh will strengthen their National Tournament resume and build on their list of quality victories against Clemson, Florida State and Michigan State.
The women’s team is looking to send their seniors out on a high note with one last victory at the Heights. Sophomore midfielder Sydney Esiason spoke about the matchup, one of the Eagles’ tougher games this season
“We’re excited to play our east coast rivals on Alumni and celebrate our seniors’ last home game, all while benefitting a cause close to our hearts,” Esiason said.
The teams hope that the Superfans can attend both games. Fight CF wristbands and Team Boomer t-shirts will also be available in the stands in exchange for donations.