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 programs recently came together for a meaningful evening of remembrance, unity, and purpose through the inspiring PLAY4MARY initiative.
Held in partnership with the The Mary Ruchalski Foundation, the event honored the life and legacy of Mary Ruchalski — a beloved Rockville Centre resident, Sacred Heart Academy student, and multi-sport athlete whose life was tragically cut short by pediatric cancer at just 12 years old.
Mary was remembered not only for her athletic talents — including her pitching ability, speed on the softball field, and standout summer season in 2016 — but also for the kindness, heart, and courage she showed both on and off the field. Teammates, coaches, and community members reflected on the impact Mary continues to have years later through the PLAY4MARY movement.
The evening served as far more than a softball game. Players from both teams wore special shirts honoring Mary and gathered before the game to speak about her life and legacy, creating a powerful moment of reflection and support.
Organized through the efforts of Colin Connelly, Liz Parliman, and Emily McKenna, along with the dedication of both softball programs and their supporters, the event highlighted how athletics can unite communities around causes that matter deeply.
PLAY4MARY is rooted in both remembrance and advocacy. The initiative also raises awareness about pediatric cancer, which remains the leading cause of death by disease in children while receiving less than 4% of federal cancer research funding. Through these games and events, student-athletes are helping shine a light on the importance of research, support, and standing beside families affected by childhood cancer.
Over the years, hundreds of athletes across Long Island have participated in PLAY4MARY games, all competing in honor of Mary and the countless children continuing to fight pediatric cancer.
South Side has proudly hosted multiple PLAY4MARY dedication games over the past several seasons, with softball becoming the latest program to carry forward the tradition.
The impact of the initiative will continue next weekend during the annual Play4Mary Weekend at Klein Field, where apparel, baked goods, and lanterns will be sold to support the foundation’s mission and continue honoring Mary’s memory.
More than just a game, the evening was a powerful reminder of the role athletics can play in building compassion, raising awareness, supporting families, and inspiring communities to come together through service and love.
