January 20th, 2026, our girls’ basketball team had a game called “Coaches vs Cancer”.  

This game had many activities with it, including an elementary shootout with elementary students, a raffle, and our schools’ new pep band performance. 

This event had a different meaning this year for everyone at Patchogue-Medford, showing support for Mr. Nuzzi. 

When asked Coach Foley said what the game meant to her, she said “It’s been a very special event for us for a long time. All of us have been impacted by cancer at some point in our lives whether it was a friend, family member, or co-worker and it’s important to raise awareness for something that is near and dear to our hearts.” 

Some girls on the team had dedicated the game to their loved ones who have or had dealt with cancer.  

“When we do our coaches vs. cancer games, it’s not just any normal game. It brings awareness and represents the fight against cancer that has affected my life and so many others, but with that it has also shown me the strength of love. This game is dedicated to my mom, who fought with more courage than I ever knew was possible” said Addison Nemeth. 

Sophia Randazzo, a junior that has been on varsity since her freshman year played for her grandpa, “We all have someone in our lives that were impacted by cancer and being able to play for them really shows how it’s bigger than basketball. I personally played for my grandpa who lost his battle to cancer and being able to play for him really adds a deeper meaning to the game and the sport overall.” 

This game was very emotional for some, but the energy and dedication were great.

Junior captain Liliana Durkin said, “I think it’s so special to play for something so much more and to have everyone come here and support us. The energy was great; it was so special.” 

Ending with a firm score of 55 to 36, the girls really showed their commitment and definitely made many proud.