The New Providence High School Volleyball teams have a great impact on their community. The effort that they put into their fundraising is huge, and they raise thousands of dollars through their “Gold Out” game and “Dig Pink” event combined. In order for these events to occur, Coach Finis, the head volleyball coach, puts lots of time and effort. 

The team’s biggest event is called “Dig Pink,”  an event at which freshman, JV, and varsity all have a game, and they are able to cheer each other on at every game. This is such a huge event that the planning for it began in August, even though the event didn’t happen until Saturday, October 15th.

Among the ways the team raises money are through bake sales, donations, and event admissions.   Serve to Win is an event where anyone can pay one dollar to serve the ball and get a gift card by getting it over and hitting a bag. These gift cards are acquired by the players going out and asking for local businesses to donate a gift card. 

This event makes the most money out of any of the volleyball events, and is the most fun for the players.

Coach Finis said: “It gives the opportunity for everyone to come together as a big volleyball family.”

The volleyball team raised $410 for pediatric cancer research through their “Gold Out” event. They had a bake sale during the game, and charged one dollar per person at the doors to watch either JV or varsity play. The players from New Providence added gold accessories while they were playing such as shoelaces and paint, while the opposing team also wore gold to support the event. 

To make students aware of the event, fliers were hung around the school, and all of the freshman, JV, and varsity players spread the work. The players also baked or brought items to include in the bake sale.

Coach Finis said that one of the most important things about these events is the support of the players, friends, families, and other New Providence citizens. She said: “The girls just being there and excited to watch and cheer on their other teammates makes all the difference for these events.”

While the varsity volleyball team has gotten off to a slow start, they are continuing to fight at each game.

Finis said: “[They’re] playing teams such as Scotch Plains, Governor Livingston, [and] Kent Place, who are being ranked very highly in the county.”