Friday Night Lights: Pine-Richland Comes Together as a Community Despite Tough Loss

On Friday night, the Pine-Richland boys lacrosse team took on the Bethel Park Blackhawks, a game with a bit more meaning behind it then usual.

Despite the fact the Rams fell 9-8 in a very intense, close-knit game, they won in many other ways.

Pine-Richland Junior Maria Ciarrocca was diagnosed with leukemia earlier in the school year and began her chemotherapy shortly after Thanksgiving.

In support of their sick classmate, the lacrosse team, led by Zach Skirpan, put on a "HEADstrong" event in which all the proceeds will go towards the organization.

Zach Skirpan, a junior goalie for Pine-Richland, says he was inspired by Maria and wanted to do anything he could to help.

"My mom and I contacted HEADstrong in December, and they were excited to help us promote this idea for the game," he said.

Zach said he believes a game like this will bring the community together.

"By hosting this lax game we want to generate support and awareness for leukemia and blood patients everywhere."

The HEADstrong foundation, a lacrosse-based blood cancer organization, will be accepting all of the profits in honor of Maria.

Pine-Richland booster groups and local businesses graciously donated more than $5,000 worth of items for the basket auction. In addition, there was a 50/50 raffle along with HEADstrong apparel.

Barbara Young, director of operations for the boys lacrosse team, was estacticabout the turn-out and the money raised Friday night.

"Our event was a major success because all of the Pine-Richland booster groups and youth clubs came together to support a worthy cause and raise awareness about blood cancer," she said.

She added, "Total proceeds won't be finalized for a couple of days, but I am sure the total will exceed our expectations."

Senior defense man Ron Richwalls acknowledged the importanceof the game—and confirms that the team is 100 percent behind Maria.

"Each game means everything to my teammates and I, and we want to go out and win every one" he said.

He also knew Friday night was more than just about getting another win on the already impressive season, saying "This one is a little more special."

"Tonight we are playing for the HEADstrong foundation and Maria Ciarrocca," he said.

Despite the tough loss, hundreds were in attendance in both support of the team and Maria Ciarrocca, as thousands of dollars were raised for the HEADstrong foundation.

Pine-Richland will continue it's season Monday night as they take on Mars at home, kicking off at 8:00 p.m.