Wheeling, W. Va. – On April 12th, 2025, the Wheeling University Softball team hosted its inaugural Strikeout Cancer Game when they battled West Virginia Wesleyan. On Wednesday, the team announced that they have raised $2,848 which will be donated to Wheeling Hospital's Oncology Fund and the family of Parker Miley. For Head l Coach, Mallory Chapman, it was more about the game of Softball, it was about raising awareness for a cause that hits close to home.
"This game meant so much more than what happened on the field," said Head Coach Mallory Chapman. "To see our team come together for a cause that touches so many lives was incredibly special. Having my mom throw out the first pitch on her birthday—after everything she's overcome in her battle with breast cancer—was an emotional moment I'll never forget. It was a day filled with purpose, unity, and hope, and I couldn't be prouder of our team and community for making it all happen." The game was proudly sponsored by WVU Medicine, whose commitment to cancer care and community support helped make the event possible. There was a special pregame ceremony where Chapman's mother, Pam Chapman, a breast cancer survivor threw out the first pitch in honor of the event. There was also a Strikeout Cancer Honor Wall, where fans were able to honor loved ones affected by cancer, and limited addition "Strikeout Cancer" T-Shirts were sold. The Cardinals capped off the day with a sweep of West Virginia Wesleyan, winning game one 6-5 and taking game two 7-6, bringing a satisfying end to a big day on the softball diamond.
All funds raised will be donated to support both Wheeling Hospital's Oncology Fund and the family of Parker Miley. The Oncology Fund helps support patients receiving cancer care in the area. Wheeling Hospital has a state-of-the-art, 16,500 square-foot Radiation Oncology division, equipped with Electronic portal imaging, high dose rate brachytherapy, two dual energy linear accelerators with multi-lead collimators, and much more. The Medical Oncology Division helps complement the Radiation Oncology Division by providing a full range of standard cancer treatments. These treatments include the newest drug protocols, chemotherapy regiments, immunotherapy, monoclonal antibodies, genetic screening, and clinical trial opportunities.
Parker Miley is an 11-year-old fifth grader at Shenandoah Elementary School in Noble County, Ohio. A passionate softball player, Parker proudly wears the number 4 while playing third base and shortstop with heart and hustle. Off the field, she enjoys painting and doing crafts. She loves animals, especially dogs and penguins. Parker is currently being treated for B-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia. Proceeds from the Strikeout Cancer Game will help support Parker and her loved ones as she continues her brave fight against this disease.
The Wheeling Softball team would like to thank everyone who came out to support the game and the cause. Without you guys, none of this would be possible.
