Hoops Capital joins forces with McGrath Foundation for Pink Hoops
On the back of the Sydney Flames’ inaugural Pink Game during the 2022-23 season, which raised more than $20,000 for the McGrath Foundation, the club has announced an even bigger event for the coming campaign.
The Flames will team up with fellow Hoops Capital club, the Sydney Kings, for a ‘Pink Hoops’ double-header on Sunday, January 14 – with all money raised during the event going to partner the McGrath Foundation.
During the day, which will see the Flames play before the Kings take on grand final opponents New Zealand from 3.45pm, the club will sport special pink jerseys, while also turning Qudos Bank Arena pink for the afternoon.
Flames president Victoria Denholm is thrilled to see the event build on last year’s massive success at Quaycentre.
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“The Pink Game last season was crazy and hugely successful,” said Denholm, who believes the authenticity of the message really cut through with the club’s fans and partners.
“Fans rallied and showed out – turning Quaycentre pink and with the help of our partners, we raised more than $20,000 for breast cancer nurses.
“The reception went beyond what I would have imagined, and I can’t wait to do it bigger and better this season.
“Further to that, I’m so excited that we can use our platform across both teams to grow on the success of last season’s Pink Game.
“The Kings guys were all asking to get involved and support the Flames pink game last season – there was a big demand for the Flames’ McGrath Foundation pink shirts.
“It’s great to have the opportunity to bring both teams together to support the cause and raise awareness.”
The idea of the club’s first-ever Pink Game was developed by former Flames point guard Tiana Mangakahia – who recently retired from the sport after being re-diagnosed with breast cancer.
“It [the inaugural Pink Game] was amazing – I loved every bit of it,” the former Australian Opal said.
“The support and money raised for the McGrath Foundation was more than I expected so it was just such an honour to be a part of and to help raise awareness.
“To hear the club is planning an even bigger event next season, alongside the Kings, is incredible and I honestly hope it helps bring more awareness to this disease.
“I also hope my journey gives those going through it hope that there can be a light at the end of their tunnel – which is why initiatives like this are vitally important.”
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McGrath Foundation ambassador and director Tracy Bevan explained how her breast cancer support charity was thrilled to be involved once again with the harbour city club.
“It’s the McGrath Foundation’s goal to fund 250 McGrath Breast Care Nurses by 2025, as we work towards our mission of ensuring that no one misses out on care,” Bevan said.
“Events like this are truly helping us to make a difference and move towards that goal; we couldn’t do it without you.”
Denholm added that her club was excited to continue its partnership with the McGrath Foundation – one that she hopes to build for years to come.
“We are a community-oriented club and as the only professional women’s basketball team in NSW, we have a platform to raise awareness and have an impact across issues that resonate with our club,” she said.
“The McGrath Foundation is doing amazing work and supporting breast cancer nurses in Australia.
“Knowing Tiana’s story and what she is currently going through – the impact of nurses at your biggest time of need is unforgettable and it’s great that we can help their initiative.”
To support Mangakahia on her road to recovery, visit here.