There was plenty of action last weekend at Acreage Community Park when nearly 50 teams converged for the 13th annual Flags for the Cure flag football tournament.
The teams competed on four fields to raise money in the fight against cancer, with approximately $300,000 raised for the American Cancer Society since the event began 13 years ago.
“It feels good,” said Keith Shivers, one of the tournament’s directors. “I’m happy for the tournament, and I’m happy for the community to be able to participate in what we’re trying to do here, which is to cure cancer.”
The tournament has grown over the years and has become a staple in the community as one of the leading athletic fundraisers. Youth teams, adult teams and co-ed teams participated in the competition. Teams played three games in pool play and advanced to a playoff round to compete for division championships.
During the tournament, the group lost one of its most iconic figures when longtime coach Willie Freundlich passed away Saturday morning during the tournament while participating in one of the games.
“He is one of two people who have been a coach in this tournament since its existence,” Shivers said. “Willie goes back to the start of the girls youth program. I’m pretty sure he was out here during its inception. He loved being out here, and he was out here doing what he loved to do.”
Shivers also thanked dedicated local sponsor Hubbs Tires and Service for being a big part of the tournament’s success. “Hubbs has been very good to us,” Shivers said. “They’re a local family and run a great business.”
For more information on the tournament and future events, visit www.flagsforthecure.com.
