Number of Participants: 30
Hours Donated: 4
Value of Time Served: $4,175
Event Type: Civic & Community
Activity: Girls Basketball
School: Northbridge High School
Date: December 23, 2025
Location:
Northbridge High School
Linwood Avenue, Whitinsville
MA
About:
Athletics became a powerful expression of compassion and unity as Northbridge Rams and Sutton High School Athletics came together for a meaningful gameday tribute at the Vet’.
In a show of solidarity and support, both teams wore special T-shirts honoring Gretel, the child of a 1994 Northbridge graduate and former captain of the Rams basketball team. Gretel is currently undergoing treatment for Acute Myeloid Leukemia, a rare and aggressive form of pediatric blood cancer.
The tribute went far beyond the scoreboard. It reflected the strength of a community rallying around one of its own—lifting up Gretel and her family with visible reminders that they are not alone. Students, athletes, coaches, and fans stood together, using the platform of high school sports to raise awareness, share hope, and demonstrate what it truly means to support one another during difficult times.
Moments like this highlight the profound impact athletics can have off the court. By choosing empathy, unity, and action, Northbridge and Sutton student-athletes showed that leadership is not only measured by performance, but by heart.
