Strike Out Cancer Game Saturday at East Benefits Scholarship, Research

When the Cherry Hill East and West softball teams meet on the diamond this weekend, it won’t just be about the rivalry.

They’ll be playing with late Cougars softball coach Charlie Musumeci in mind, as they raise money for the scholarship fund in his memory and for a to-be-named cancer foundation, in what organizers hope is the first in an annual series—and maybe more—in what they’re dubbing the Strike Out Cancer game at East's softball complex.

The day kicks off Saturday with the junior varsity game at 10 a.m., followed by the varsity game at noon, with a barbecue going on the entire day. Additional refreshments, raffles, T-shirts and more will help the fundraising effort, which the teams are trying to supplement with donations.

While it’s just an East-West game for now, organizers said it could potentially turn into a tournament in the late coach’s memory.

Musumeci, who stepped down this winter as East’s coach after 28 years, died in March after a two-year fight against adrenal cancer.

The 58-year-old coach and educator spent 38 years as a staff member in the school district, filling numerous roles at East, from the theater department to the softball field.

More informationa about the game is available at east-softball.com or via email at boosterclub@east-softball.com.