Trojans have successful 'Think Pink' week

Posted on Thursday, October 28, 2010

By NICK HUNTIMER, DSU Information Systems

The Dakota State University Trojans had a successful "Think Pink" athletic campaign last week. The volleyball and football teams, along with "DSU Colleges against Cancer," were involved.

"Think Pink" helps raise awareness about breast cancer and other types of cancers during October. This is one way that DSU continued its growth in the NAIA Champions of Character initiative.

On Oct. 20, DSU hosted Dakota Wesleyan in a "Think Pink" volleyball match at the DSU Fieldhouse. Each player was designated to honor or play in memory of a person(s) afflicted with cancer. There were posters which displayed for whom each DSU player was playing.

Marva Jerke, a breast cancer survivor, hit the first serve in the non-conference match. Jerke has been with DSU for 19 years and is a Program Assistant II at the Physical Plant. The volleyball players did their part by wearing pink from head to toe. Baked goods were sold to raise funds for cancer awareness.

DSU won the match 3-0.

On Saturday, DSU and Jamestown College volleyball teams played a "Think Pink" night in Jamestown, N.D.

Several DSU football players and coaches played for others who had or have cancer. The football players wore pink on their arms and pink athletic tape on their shoes and shoelaces. Posters were also displayed for the players honoring the person(s) in their lives who have been afflicted with cancer.

Jerke served as an honorary captain for the football team. She participated in the pregame activities, including the coin toss.

©Madison Daily Leader 2010