News Summary

The Tolland Eagles baseball team held its annual ‘Pink Game’ on May 8, 2025, honoring cancer survivors and raising awareness for the disease. Community members supported the event by wearing pink, celebrating the strength of local survivors, and remembering those who have fought the battle. The Eagles secured an 8-0 victory against the Manchester Red Hawks, showcasing both athletic skill and an emotional connection to their mission.

Tolland Eagles Honor Cancer Survivors at Annual ‘Pink Game’ Against Manchester

In the cozy city of Tolland, Connecticut, the air was charged with excitement and emotion as the Tolland Eagles baseball team played their annual ‘Pink Game’ against the Manchester Red Hawks on May 8, 2025. This event isn’t just any regular game; it’s a heartfelt celebration of courage, resilience, and community spirit. The Pink Game is thoughtfully dedicated to raising awareness for cancer and honoring those impacted by the disease.

A League of Their Own

As the players took to the field at Tolland High School, many of them were fueled not just by their love for the game but also by the inspiring journeys of their own mothers. Two remarkable women in attendance were Susanna Bryant and Amy Hatheway, both strong cancer survivors. They proudly showed their support for their sons, who are key players on the Eagles. Susanna, who triumphed over breast cancer after undergoing a double mastectomy in 2023, has been in remission for two years. Meanwhile, Amy has battled lymphoma with admirable strength, having undergone a stem-cell transplant in 2024, now celebrating six months of remission.

Remembering a Cherished Coach

While the atmosphere was festive, it also carried a somber note. The game was held in memory of Laura Hayes, a cherished local school psychologist who lost her battle with pancreatic cancer just over a year ago. Her son, A.J. Hayes, a leading player on the Eagles, played with an extra sprinkle of determination, demonstrating how the team is woven together by threads of shared experiences and the strength of their mothers.

A Game to Remember

When the umpire called “play ball,” it was clear the Eagles were on a mission. They secured a solid 8-0 victory against Manchester, showcasing not only their athletic prowess but also their emotional strength. With cheers echoing from the stands, Evan Clark impressed everyone with a remarkable two-run homer in the fifth inning. Teammates celebrated high-fives and fist bumps, particularly during a thrilling sixth inning where A.J. and his fellow players reveled in their collective triumph.

More Than Just a Game

The significance of the pink jerseys worn by the players extended past fashion statements. Each jersey represented the bond between the boys and their mothers, illustrating how these young athletes draw motivation from their mothers’ battles with cancer. It was clear to anyone watching that this was not just about baseball; it was about lifting one another up.

A Community United

The local community turned out in droves, marked by spirited participation and undying support for cancer awareness. Fans sported their pink attire and cheered passionately, reminding everyone in attendance of the strength found in togetherness during trying times. The camaraderie amongst the players and their families created an atmosphere that felt electric – a reminder that hope and community go hand in hand.

For Mason Bryant, wearing a pink arm sleeve during the game became a source of comfort and support for his mother during her treatment. This little gesture embodies the heartwarming and supportive spirit reflected throughout the game, tying everyone together in a shared celebration of love, strength, and perseverance against cancer.

The Tradition Continues

With a history spanning several seasons, the Tolland Eagles’ Pink Game has evolved into much more than a friendly rivalry; it’s an emotional tribute that resonates throughout the community, creating an everlasting legacy of support for those battling cancer. For the Eagles, every match is a reminder of the courage of their mothers and the countless others who have faced the challenges of this disease. Through heartbreak and heroism, the Tolland Eagles are here not just to play ball but to stand united in honor of those who inspire them every day.

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