Gator Athletes Give Back: UF Students Volunteer at Climb for Cancer Event

This past Sunday, more than 50 University of Florida student-athletes traded their game plans for goodwill, volunteering at the annual Brandon Lang Memorial Sports Camp Climb for Cancer event.

Since 2006, the Gators have been a huge part of this event, which gives children battling or who have battled cancer a chance to enjoy a day of sports. The kids and their families got to meet athletes from various UF teams and use the University Athletic Association’s facilities.

They spent the day playing sports like basketball, soccer, and football, and ran through various dance drills. “Climb for Cancer is a truly special event that brings out the very best in our local community and student-athletes,” said Pierre Banks, Assistant Director of Community Development.

Banks highlighted how the event puts things in perspective. “The families we see at Climb for Cancer are battling something so much bigger than a scoreboard,” he said. The goal is to bring smiles to these families while leaving a lasting impression on the athletes themselves.

Over the years, more than 3,000 Gator athletes have participated in the event, connecting with and inspiring the Gainesville community.