Every year the eyes of the lacrosse community descend on the blue collar town of Folsom, PA to be apart an effort supporting the HEADstrong Foundation and the fight against blood cancer.
Over 20 collegiate men’s lacrosse programs, 5,000 supporters and a large group of volunteers settle upon Ridley High School to be apart of the Nicholas Colleluori Classic; an event which has become the largest fall collegiate lacrosse event in the country having generated over 1.5 million dollars for the HEADstrong Foundation since 2006.
The two-day event is dedicated to remembering the life and legacy of HEADstrong founder Nicholas Colleluori while promoting the importance of community, brotherhood and sportsmanship within the sport.
Often referred to as the NCC this event is an emotional experience to be apart of. Each team is led by an honorary captain who is either a survivor or patient of blood cancer. The Colleluori family delivers a heartfelt address to all of the participants and attendees during the HEADstrong presentation. Each program is recognized for their commitment to the foundation and giving sincere appreciation for making the event a success.
“We are always taken back by the reception that our supporters and participating schools give us. The outcry of support is overwhelming at times. I cannot think of a more fitting way to honor my son and founder Nicholas then by hosting this event on the field that he played on. If one person walks away from this event inspired by Nick’s life we have done our job. We are honored to host this event and share Nick’s life with the entire lacrosse community,” HEADstrong president Cheryl Colleluori.
NCAA student athletes are at the heart of this philanthropic effort. Each participating program generates a team donation of $5,000 through soliciting donations and official HEADstrong merchandise on their respected campuses. The event boasts a fall festival like atmosphere with all proceeds benefitting the fight against blood cancer.
