Niagara College Athletics is inviting the NC community and the public to come together for a special doubleheader in support of cancer awareness.
On Saturday, January 10, 2026, the NC Knights will host the Fanshawe Falcons for OCAA varsity volleyball action at the Simplii Financial Athletic Centre at the Welland Campus, as part of the Knights’ “Thumbs Down to Cancer” event. The women’s game will kick off at 1 p.m., followed by the men’s match at 3 p.m.
The event is being held in honour of Abbey Gooder, a fifth-year General Arts and Science student-athlete and member of the Knights women’s volleyball team, following her recent fight against thyroid cancer. Abbey has been part of the NC Knights since 2021 and is currently competing in her final season with the program. She previously completed the Protection, Security and Investigation – Customs Border Services program, as well as the Fitness and Health Promotion program at Niagara College.
“After being diagnosed with thyroid cancer, and getting it removed a few weeks later, I experienced so many emotions,” said Gooder. “Being in my fifth year here at Niagara, my biggest wish was to return to the volleyball court in January healthy and ready to compete again. This set back was just a bump in the road and it will not stop me from being the same athlete as I was before, and ending my volleyball career on a high note.”
Gooder also credits the overwhelming support she has received throughout her recovery.
“The support that I’ve received over the past couple of weeks from my teammates, coaches, the athletic department, friends, and family has meant everything to me and has played a huge role in keeping me motivated,” she added
The family-friendly event will feature music, refreshments, and opportunities to give back, with all proceeds supporting the Walker Family Cancer Centre through the Niagara Health Foundation.
Ways to support on game day include:
- Purchase a game ticket: $5 per person at the door (cash or e-transfer); children 12 and under are free
- Purchase event items: including bracelets, stickers, and refreshments (while supplies last)
- Enter the raffle: with prizes such as NC Knights swag, Niagara River Lions tickets, and Toronto Maple Leafs tickets
- Make a direct donation: every contribution helps!
Tickets and fundraising items will be available for purchase at the door on game day (cash or e-transfer only).
For more information or to learn how to support the initiative, contact Geoffrey Benoit, Intercollegiate Coordinator, at [email protected].
Let’s join together, fill the stands, and cheer on the Knights during a fun-filled afternoon of volleyball, while supporting a fantastic cause!
