Win-E-Mac and Fosston Rally East Polk Community for 2nd Annual Coaches vs. Cancer Night

The Win-E-Mac Patriots and Fosston Greyhounds boys’ basketball teams once again united their communities during the 2nd Annual East Polk Coaches vs. Cancer Night, using basketball to raise awareness, honor loved ones, and support the ongoing fight against cancer.

To be held on Friday, February 6, the event partners with the American Cancer Society, supporting its mission to save lives, celebrate lives, and lead the fight for a world without cancer.

Building on the success of last year’s inaugural event, East Polk schools aims to make an even greater impact. In 2024, the combined efforts of the Win-E-Mac and Fosston communities raised more than $11,000 through an online campaign, the sale of placards, and free-will donations—directly supporting individuals and families affected by cancer. This year’s goal was to surpass that total and continue growing the tradition.

A central component of the night is the “Today I Honor…” placard fundraiser, led by student-athletes. Players from Win-E-Mac boys’ and girls’ basketball programs, along with Fosston boys’ basketball players, sell placards for $1 each, inviting community members to write the name of a loved one who has survived, is currently battling, or has passed away from cancer. While many purchase one or two placards, donations often exceeded the cost, reflecting the generosity and personal connection behind each tribute. All placards are displayed in the gym on game night, creating a powerful visual representation of the community’s shared experience.

Players, coaches, and cheerleaders further honored those affected by cancer by wearing shirts in memory or in honor of loved ones. Fans were encouraged to participate in a “white out” night, filling the gym in white as a unified show of support.

The event was initiated by Nathan Johnson, whose personal connection to the cause inspired its creation. Having lost both parents to cancer, Johnson sought to establish a meaningful partnership with Fosston—a program he previously coached with and remains closely connected to. The collaboration was further strengthened by the schools’ long-standing rivalry, their shared identity as the East Polk Northstars softball co-op, and a history of East Polk involvement in Relay for Life fundraising efforts.

Coaches vs. Cancer Night reflects the heart of East Polk athletics—community, compassion, and leadership beyond competition. By coming together across schools and programs, Win-E-Mac and Fosston demonstrated how high school sports can unite a region around hope, support, and action. Through continued fundraising, awareness, and shared purpose, the Patriots and Greyhounds are helping make the journey easier for those facing cancer today while contributing to the search for a cure tomorrow.