Number of Participants: 40
Hours Donated: 4
Value of Time Served: $5,566
Event Type: Children & Youth
Activity: Softball
School: South Side High School
Date: May 6, 2026
Location:
South Side High School
Shepherd Street, Rockville Centre
NY
About:
The Sacred Heart Varsity Softball and South Side Varsity Softball recently came together for a special evening celebrating the life, legacy, and spirit of Mary through the inspiring PLAY4MARY initiative.
Organized in partnership with The Mary Ruchalski Foundation, the event used athletics as a platform to honor Mary’s memory while bringing together players, families, and supporters in a powerful show of community and compassion.
Throughout the evening, stories were shared about Mary’s love for softball, her pitching abilities, her speed on the field, and the incredible season she had in the summer of 2016 before her life was forever changed. Through the PLAY4MARY campaign, her memory continues to inspire others and create meaningful opportunities for connection, awareness, and support.
The event was made possible through the efforts of organizers Colin Connelly, Liz Parliman, and Emily McKenna, along with the student-athletes and supporters from both softball programs. Their leadership and dedication helped create a memorable night that celebrated Mary’s life while reinforcing the positive impact athletics can have within a community.
Beyond the competition on the field, the evening served as a reminder of how sports can unite people around causes that matter most. Through teamwork, remembrance, and service, these student-athletes demonstrated the important role high school athletics can play in supporting families, honoring loved ones, and inspiring others through action.
The PLAY4MARY initiative will continue next weekend at Klein Field with the annual Play4Mary Weekend, where apparel, baked goods, and lanterns will be sold to continue supporting the foundation’s mission and honoring Mary’s legacy.
