Once again, SaddleBrooke played host to a varied fundraising event in the fight against skin cancer—the most common form of cancer. The Seventh Annual Skin Cancer Research Fundraiser featured an eclectic silent auction; spirited and entertaining University of Arizona Women’s and Men’s Tennis Team warm-up drills and games; SaddleBrooke Tennis Club (STC) Wildcat-am tennis and pop dubs; as well as a bevy of delicious eats and beverages. And yes, giving to this cause is also loads of fun!
The ever-expanding silent auction highlighted a wide variety of enticing products and services such as: hair styling; tennis lessons; golf-cart services; various hand-made or commercial items; entertainment tickets; racquet stringing; plus, numerous gift cards/vouchers/gift certificates for scrumptious eats. Here is a partial list of donors for this year’s event:
University of Arizona Skin Caner Institute- Dylan Miller, The Keg Steakhouse & Bar, Stylin’ Hair Salon, La Hacieda, Duadalajara’s Mexican, DerertView Performing Arts Center, Olive Garden in Oro Valley, Firebirds – La Endcantada, Blanco Tacos & Tequila, Bubb’s Grubb, Pottery Fiesta, SaddleBrooke Ranch Grill, Sprouts Farmer’s Marker, Happy Vine in the Oro Valley Marketplace, University of Arizona Coach Ryan Stotland, University of Arizona Women’s Assistant Coaches, Holly Rose, Carrabba’s, Chilli’s, It’s All Greek to Me, Golf Cars of AZ, HOA-1 Food & Beverage, University of Arizona’s Head Coach Clancy Shields, University of Arizona Men’s Assistant Coaches, Catalina Craft Pizza, North Italia – La Encantada, Uptown Burger on Skyline, Liam Flynn, Saffron Bistro and University of Arizona Men’s Basketball.
The Skin Cancer Institute (SCI) which unites the University of Arizona Cancer Center’s many skin cancer research and prevention endeavors: bringing together innovative research, clinical care, education and community outreach. Dylan Miller, Community Outreach Coordinator for SCI, explained, “Our mission is to prevent and cure skin cancer; in the last several years there have been some great advances in the treatment of melanoma, which is the more serious form of skin cancer and can be deadly.” He went on to say, “every dollar raised stays at the Cancer Center and is primarily used to fund seed grants which often lead to research breakthroughs”.
Over $2,000 was accepted from SaddleBrooke Tennis Club (STC) members for joining the Wildcat Tennis Teams on the courts for some thoroughly fun doubles tennis and Pop. Midori Castillo-Meza, one of the LadyCats, even joined us on her 21st birthday—how’s that for commitment?
Lon Federwitz (Pop Committee Chair) expressed his experience playing with and against the Wildcats: “The kids were a lot of fun. They all picked up pop instantly and enjoyed a different aspect of the game they love. We all sat and chatted for a bit and learned what they are doing and where their plans are going forward. Great kids. The play was super, lots of laughs and banter. Their skill is amazing. Glad I did it.” Steve Nelson added: “I played in the Wildcat Skin Cancer Research fundraiser for the second time and will be playing again next year! The student athletes were gracious and interesting with varied backgrounds and goals in tennis and beyond. It was great to meet them, personally, and playing with and against such strong and talented players is always fun and inspirational.”
The volunteers in our club are well-known for selflessly giving their time and energy! They exhibit an attitude of “working together for a common goal” which make these events possible.
The annual fundraising event continues to grow with a total of nearly $6,000 raised for a cause that will help all of us, as well as generations to come, benefit from the cure and prevention of skin cancer. Remember, we all have skin in this game!
STC continually projects its dedication to the health and enjoyment of all SaddleBrooke residents.