WHEELING, W.Va. – The Wheeling University Softball team is set to host its first annual Strike Out Cancer game on Saturday, April 12, as they take on West Virginia Wesleyan in a doubleheader at the J.B. Chambers I-470 Sports Complex. This special event aims to raise awareness and funds to support those impacted by cancer. The honorary first pitch is scheduled for 12:45 p.m., with the first game of the double header starting at 1 p.m.

Proceeds from the event will benefit the Wheeling Hospital Oncology Fund and Parker Miley and her family as she bravely battles B-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia. Parker, a local fifth-grade softball player, has inspired many with her strength, and the Wheeling softball community is proud to rally behind her.

The game will feature a special honorary first pitch ceremony, recognizing individuals who have made a difference in the fight against cancer. Taking the mound will be:

• Pam Chapman, a breast cancer survivor, Wheeling Softball supporter and mother to alumni and head coach Mallory Chapman.
• Dr. Tina Bhatnagar, Director of Medical Oncology for the WVU Cancer Institute at Wheeling Hospital, whose dedication impacts countless lives.
• Chick-fil-A Highlands, the Cardinals' season home run sponsor, throwing in honor of Parker Miley.

Fans attending the game will have the opportunity to honor loved ones affected by cancer by adding their names to the Strike Out Cancer Honor Wall. Those wishing to submit a name can do so online https://forms.office.com/r/D8cC4DeGh4

Additionally, limited edition Strike Out Cancer t-shirts are available for purchase. A limited stock will be available at the game, or pre-orders can be placed online for shirts that will arrive after the event https://forms.office.com/r/Vj0YV2Ji54

Adding to the game-day experience, Chick-fil-A Highlands will be on-site with their food trailer, offering fan favorites throughout the games.

"We are honored to host this game and stand with those affected by cancer," said Wheeling Softball Head Coach Mallory Chapman. "This event is about more than just softball—it's about coming together as a community to show our support, raise awareness, and make a difference."

This year's Strike Out Cancer game is proudly sponsored by WVU Medicine, whose commitment to cancer care and community support makes this event possible.

"We are happy to partner with the Wheeling University softball team whose teamwork clearly extends beyond the field," said Jess Moore, AVP of Foundation & Community Relations for WVU Medicine.  "We are so proud of these athletes for taking the game they love and using it as a platform to support those battling cancer." 

Join Wheeling University Softball on April 12 as we Strike Out Cancer together. We hope to see you at J.B. Chambers I-470 Sports Complex for a day of competition, community, and courage.

For more information, please contact the head coach, Mallory Chapman. Follow Wheeling Softball on social media for updates, weather delays and more.