“SHOOT FOR A CURE” to Fund Pediatric Research in Erie
Erie, Pennsylvania – As 2025 comes to a close, a new high school girls basketball tournament will tip off in Erie, spotlighting regional talent while raising funds to support local pediatric cancer research.
Hosted by Iroquois High School and sponsored by Hamot Health Foundation, the inaugural Shoot for a Cure tournament will feature four teams from northwest Pennsylvania – Clarion Area (Clarion), host Iroquois (Erie), Rocky Grove (Franklin), and Saegertown (Saegertown).
The event takes place Monday, December 29, and Tuesday, December 30, with all proceeds supporting HHF’s Children’s Care Fund and its efforts to improve care and outcomes for pediatric cancer patients.
Iroquois High School athletic director Michael Kujawinski was a driving force behind the tournament.
“Our mission [is to host] a top-tier basketball tournament featuring female athletes and to [raise] at least $1000 to donate to the Children’s Care Fund. The Iroquois community is very happy to work with the Hamot Health Foundation.”
Hamot Health Foundation development coordinator Shawn Bednard was a key collaborator in bringing the school and the foundation together for this event.
“Two major focuses of Hamot Health Foundation in 2025 have been in pediatrics and cancer care. When our Foundation was approached regarding the concept of Shoot for a Cure, it was a perfect match in advancing our efforts in these clinical areas while also providing an opportunity to support our local student-athletes. We’re honored to have HHF’s name next to this inaugural showcase, and can’t wait for the Lady Braves and their visitors to hit the hardwood later this month.”
Clarion Area vs. Saegertown will open the tournament on Monday, December 29 at 6:00 P.M., while 7:30 P.M. will see host Iroquois playing Rocky Grove. Tuesday’s slate will play the Consolation Game at 6:00 P.M., and the Championship Game closing the tournament at 7:30 P.M. All four games will be played at the Thomas C. Barringer Gymnasium at 4301 Main Street, Erie, PA 16511.
The Shoot for a Cure tournament is open for the public to attend. One admission price gives attendees the opportunity to view both games for the day they attend. Adult tickets are $4, and Student/Senior tickets are $2.
Members of the local media are invited to see the first-time tournament in action, talk with organizers and participating teams, and learn more about how this event will benefit youth in the Erie community.
To support initiatives that benefit pediatric research in the Erie region, please consider a donation to Hamot Health Foundation’s Children’s Care Fund. More information on the funds and the work to support Erie’s youngest patients can be found at HamotHealthFoundation.org.
About Iroquois School District:
The mission of the Iroquois School District, in partnership with family and community, is to prepare students for an ever-changing world and promote responsible citizenship by providing diverse educational opportunities and effective learning techniques.
Back The Braves:
Learn more about Iroquois School District at IroquoisSD.org or by following on social media with Facebook or Instagram. For more information on Iroquois Braves Athletics, head to IroquoisBraves.org.
About Hamot Health Foundation:
Hamot Health Foundation is a non-profit organization with the mission to lead the Erie community to better health. The vision and values of the organization are steered by an unwavering commitment to the 4 C’s: Clinical Excellence, Cutting Edge Research, Career Development, Community Health.
Follow The Foundation:
Stay updated on the latest news, initiatives, events, and programs from the Hamot Health Foundation at HamotHealthFoundation.org, or follow along on social media with Facebook, Instagram, or LinkedIn.
MEDIA CONTACTS:
Iroquois High School
Michael Kujawinski, Athletic Director
(814) 899-7643 x2503
Hamot Health Foundation
Shawn Bednard, Development Coordinator
(814) 877-7038