Jets and Pilots Come Together for Greater Good

Encinal players go up for a block during the annual Dig Pink match. Photo by Abby Cho

On October 7, Encinal faced St. Joseph's in the Pilots annual “Dig Pink” game. Although the Jets lost 3-1, both teams battled in front of a sellout crowd. The match is used to spread breast cancer awareness and raise funds for the Side-Out Foundation. A decades long tradition, the game is less about who wins and more about the greater cause.

“It was really cool because everyone was showing support for one cause rather than rooting for one team,” said Senior Sophia Tramel.

The Jets unveiled new pink jerseys for the match while St. Joseph's players wore custom "Dig Pink" jerseys. Even Jetty, Encinal's mascot. wore a pink feather boa for the occasion.

“There was a communal focus on raising money for the Side-Out foundation," said Tramel. "It was more than a rivalry.”

For many of the players, the match includes the largest crowd they'll play in front of all season.

"It feels great," said Senior Naomi White about playing in the event. "Especially since there was a huge turnout. We love the environment and the competition."

Encinal fans react to the Jets winning a key point. Photo by Abby Cho

Encinal's beloved mascot also added to the spirited environment.

"Being Jetty was a bit chaotic," said Senior Min Ly. "But I enjoyed it a lot. Hearing people cheering for me as Jetty was a really crazy feeling. It felt like I was lowkey famous."

Photos by Chelsea Wee