While it may appear that it’s baseball and basketball season, a significant football match is primed to take place at 3 p.m. on Saturday, April 16 at GPS. It’s not the Titans, Vols or Mocs playing, though. Instead, North Chattanooga will face off against the Southside in a powder-puff showdown to raise money for the Alzheimer’s Association.
Event coordinator Beth Cragon said young female professionals from throughout the area, from North Georgia to Cleveland, will be participating as players, coaches and volunteers. Concessions are being provided by GPS, and Cragon said all in attendance are welcome to an after-party at Universal Joint.
This RivALZ game is one of many across the nation, which have collectively raised over $5 million for research and support for those suffering from the disease. Last year’s Blondes vs. Brunettes game at GPS, the first locally, helped raise over $15,000 for the organization, and Cragon said they’re looking to raise even more this year.
“There’s been so much growth already,” she said of the event. “We’ve added several coaches and many more players than last year. Our committee has really worked for this growth, so it’s really exciting.”
While the game should prove to be great fun for the players and fans alike, Cragon said the real focus is on raising awareness about the widespread danger of Alzheimer’s.
“So many think of Alzheimer’s just as a disease where old people lose their memory, not realizing how often it affects younger people,” said Cragon. “It’s the sixth-leading cause of death in America, so we really want folks to understand the seriousness of the disease.”
The Alzheimer’s Association is a nationwide organization dedicated to providing resources, consultation and assistance to those suffering from Alzheimer’s and their families. Aside from financial and medical help, the organization also operates support groups for anyone affected by the disease.
“We’re really looking to raise the awareness of the disease and our organization here locally,” Cragon said. “When I tell people I work for the Alzheimer’s Association, so many don’t even realize that we’re here.”
The game will cost $12 at the gate, but donating at least $10 to the organization beforehand will get you free entry. Those looking to donate or volunteer their time can find more information at act.alz.org/rivalzchatt.