Coaches vs Cancer: Wyoming Seminary Edges Tunkhannock in a Meaningful Matchup
By: Doug Noldy | Sportzwire | January 27, 2025 | Photo courtesy Doug Noldy
Monday, January 27, 2025, was more than just a game at Tunkhannock High School as the Lady Tigers hosted the Wyoming Seminary Lady Blue Knights in a Coaches vs. Cancer event. The annual tradition brought the community together to raise awareness and funds for cancer research, showcasing the power of sports to unite people for a greater cause.
Chris Van Ness, one of the event organizers, spoke with SportzWire’s Doug Noldy ahead of the game about the importance of this initiative. “Cancer has touched everyone’s lives—whether it’s a family member, friend, or coach. It’s near and dear to all of our hearts,” Van Ness said. The event, held every year, aims to not only raise awareness but also surpass the previous year’s fundraising total, with all proceeds going directly to the American Cancer Society. (Chris Van Ness Interview Click Here)
The Game Recap: (Video Highlights Click Here)
In a closely fought contest, Wyoming Seminary edged out Tunkhannock 50–43. The game highlighted standout performances from both teams while keeping the crowd engaged throughout the evening.
Wyoming Seminary’s Ella Stambaugh (Watch Video) delivered an unforgettable performance, scoring a game-high 28 points. Stambaugh was clinical at the free-throw line, converting 8 of 9 attempts (89%), and hit 9 field goals, including 2 three-pointers. Teammate Ellie Kersey added 9 points, all from beyond the arc, with a perfect 3-for-3 from three-point range, while Avery Luksic chipped in 8 points, maintaining a flawless free-throw record (4-for-4).
For Tunkhannock, senior Erin Van Ness led the charge with 22 points, shooting 10 field goals and adding a three-pointer. Although she struggled slightly at the line (1-for-3, 33%), her leadership was evident throughout. Laurianna Alstonprovided strong support with 10 points, converting 50% of her free throws (2-for-4). Sophomore Mackenzie Gregorycontributed 9 points, including a standout 83% from the line (5-for-6).
Team Statistics:
• Wyoming Seminary:
• Field Goals: 16
• Three-Pointers: 5
• Free Throws: 13/14 (93%)
• Tunkhannock:
• Field Goals: 17
• Three-Pointers: 1
• Free Throws: 8/13 (62%)
A Special Night for a Worthy Cause:
While Wyoming Seminary secured the win on the scoreboard, the real victory was the unity and support displayed during this Coaches vs. Cancer event. Van Ness emphasized, “It’s always a big deal for the girls. We just like to raise awareness and raise money for research because everybody is affected by it.”
SportzWire applauds Tunkhannock’s efforts in organizing such a meaningful event and the community for their support. The Lady Tigers will look to regroup and focus on their next matchup, but the impact of this event will resonate far beyond the hardwood.
