The Austin Hatcher Foundation for Pediatric Cancer’s Teen Ambassadors hosted a sand volleyball tournament at XSV Volleyball in Hixson. The event, part of the 2024 “Hit it for Hatch” fundraising series presented by Tennessee Oncology, drew dozens of participants and spectators, raising funds to support families affected by pediatric cancer at the Austin Hatcher Foundation.
The unique tournament featured teams of coed quads, welcoming any combination of kids, adults, boys or girls. This inclusive format allowed for a fun and engaging competition while highlighting the mission of the Austin Hatcher Foundation: making life better through childhood cancer support for families, said officials.
Before play began, the teen ambassadors led a prayer for Lannah, a volleyball player recently diagnosed with Hodgkin Lymphoma. Then, from 8:30 a.m.-5 p.m., the event showcased a variety of matches, with pool play in the morning leading into bracket play in the afternoon. Throughout the day, participants enjoyed cold drinks, snacks, lunch from Chili Pepper Ranch, and community with other Chattanooga participants and Foundation supporters.
“I enjoyed how organized and fun the event was and that everyone was so positive,” said Kallie West, a participant in Saturday’s tournament. “I loved that the ambassadors recognized stand-out players after each match.”
The Austin Hatcher Foundation for Pediatric Cancer’s Teen Ambassador Program is designed to engage high school students with the Foundation’s mission to help erase the effects of pediatric cancer. TAP individuals must be sophomores, juniors, or seniors in high school and commit to a minimum of 60 volunteer hours a year. The “Hit It for Hatch” series was created by teen ambassadors who share a love for sports, as a creative way for kids and adults to get involved in a good cause, fundraise, and bring more awareness to the work of the Austin Hatcher Foundation.
“I volunteer with the Austin Hatcher Foundation because the kids are all super sweet and it is fun to see how you can impact someone’s life in ways you never realize,” said Ellie Holland. “The other ambassadors are all really nice and it’s a fun environment to be in.”
The “Hit it for Hatch” sand volleyball tournament was the third event in the 2024 “Hit it for Hatch” series, following the success of a tennis event in January 2023 and a pickleball event in March 2024. The next “Hit it for Hatch” pickleball event is scheduled for Nov. 16.
“We are thrilled with the tremendous turnout and support for the Hit It For Hatch sand volleyball Tournament,” said Amy Jo Osborn, president and CEO of the Austin Hatcher Foundation. “Our Teen Ambassadors have demonstrated exceptional organizational skills in coordinating these events, and it is truly inspiring to witness the community uniting to support our mission.”
The 2024 “Hit it for Hatch” series is presented by Tennessee Oncology. Gold sponsors include McCallie School, Talley Construction, Chattanooga Christian School, Sawrie Orthodontics, Little Coyote, Mountain View Ford, XSV Beach, Scenic City Orthodontics, Erlanger Neurosurgery and Spine, and Lori and Douglas Finlay. Other sponsors can be found at www.hatcherfoundation.org/events/hit-it-for-hatch.
Funds raised through the “Hit it for Hatch” events directly benefit children and families affected by pediatric cancer through the Austin Hatcher Foundation, providing services such as Mental and Behavioral Health Therapy, Occupational Therapy, Grief Groups, Tutoring, Academic Support, Art and Music Lessons, Family Programs, and more, all at no cost.
For more information about the Austin Hatcher Foundation, the Teen Ambassador Program, and upcoming “Hit it for Hatch” events, visit www.hatcherfoundation.org.