DIPG AWARANESS

What is DIPG?

 

It stands for Diffused Intrinsic Pontine Glioma, a childhood brain cancer with a survival rate of 0%.  There is no treatment and no cure. 

 

Why do we support this cause?

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On March 10th of 2018 Camron Cozzi received his angel wings after a 27-month battle.  Cam was one of our lacrosse players and he was a wonderful kid.  On one of our last visits with Cam here on earth we promised him we would continue to help his fight in this battle to find a treatment and ultimately a cure. 

 

How did the tournament come about?

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NW Fall Lax Fest began in 2011 in Spokane, WA.  We saw a need for a fall lacrosse tournament so started one on the east side thinking it would be a great opportunity for Canadian and US teams to play.  We played on the Polo Fields.  In 2016 we moved to Yakima and the tourney doubled in size.  Camron played in the tourney but only in Spokane.  He was diagnosed Dec 22, 2015.  After hearing Cam's horrific news we felt helpless and didn't know how to help.  That's when we added DIPG Awareness to our tourney.  

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How do we support the cause during the tournament?

 

• Spread awareness by having a Team Cozzi Foundation booth at our event.  This foundation was founded by Cam's parents, Paul & Cyndi Cozzi who continue to graciously battle with the utmost courage.

• We donate $1 for every goal scored during the tournament.

• We donate $10 from every game for volunteer scorekeeping. 

• The WALOA referee association donates $5 per game they ref

• We encourage families, coaches and players to get creative in challenges.  Ex:  Every "save" a goalie has his parents will donate $5, Every "ground ball" a team gets the coach will donate $2, every "goal" the player donates $1 and parents match it etc.