On October 10, the Del Mar Dons hosted the Oak Grove Eagles for football’s annual Think Pink game, raising awareness for breast cancer. Despite a loss that ended with a score of 14 to 28, the night was filled with spirit, dedication and of course, the color pink.
When asked about the game, Nico Collins, receiver and defensive back for Del Mar varsity team, commends his own performance and comments on the team as a whole.
“I think I did pretty well. I ended the first half with an interception and a couple of tackles, and I got a touchdown in the second half,” Collins says, “I think we fought, but there are definitely some improvements that need to be made. Overall, I think we did decently.”
In addition to having fun playing his sport, Collins says he also “loves seeing all the pink” when this specific game comes around.
Although the game didn’t go as planned, Collins looks forward to the team making improvements in preparation for next week’s game against Silver Creek.
“I think the biggest thing is to go to practice and work hard, […] this week we had a lot of people miss practice because of field trips and injuries,” Collins says. “I think next week we’ll be stronger.”
Though the Dons didn’t secure a win, the Think Pink game was a huge success with both the cheer team, and fans alike.
Andrew Velazquez, varsity cheerleader, says, “Yes I [looked forward to the game], I love to cheer and like to cheer on my team and everything, […] I love to be spirited.”
For ASB student Natalie Tran, the enjoyment of football games comes from not only watching the field, but also, “[having] spirit at football games because it makes the crowd and the game more enjoyable.”
Del Mar events and decorations are thought of and planned weeks in advance by ASB students like Tran. The amount of preparation is crucial to ensure Dons families and students have fun when the date comes around.
“For upcoming events I think everyone should participate and have fun,” says Tran. “ASB puts in a lot of effort and time into these events and it sucks when no one’s participating in it.”
October is always full of spirit for the Dons. Surrounding not only Halloween, but breast cancer awareness month as well. Fall sports athletes are able to show support through jerseys and decoration while doing what they love.
While the team couldn’t secure a win on the field, Think Pink brings the community together to support a meaningful cause, and that is a victory on its own. As Del Mar’s spirit continues to shine, there’s no doubt that Think Pink will again be exciting in the upcoming years. Go Dons!
