Reporter
The Gamma Phi Beta “Moon Ball” tournament will be held at CSU Bakersfield’s Student Recreation Center from May 11 through 13 from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.
The Moon Ball name stands for Gamma Phi Beta’s crescent moon and revolves around a sport that requires a ball, such as a baseball, kickball, or soccer ball. This year it is volleyball that will put individuals to the test.
The proceeds from the event will go to Girls on the Run, a non-profit organization dedicated to inspiring girls to pursue their dreams and to embrace their limitless potential.
Sarah McPherson, philanthropy chairwoman for Gamma Phi Beta, is in charge of creating and hosting the tournament. McPherson said she is looking forward to “the impact the contribution will make on the lives of countless young girls.” She ultimately believes that everyone involved in the event will make a difference and contribute to something great.
Mary Guenette, Delta Phi president, said that their Girls on the Run philanthropy helps foster confidence, leadership and healthy living in girls ages 8 to 13. The young girls participate in a 5K run at the end of their season, in which Gamma Phi Beta is able to attend and contribute to.
“Being able to donate to Girls on the Run is amazing,” said Guenette. “Our hard work and fundraising is helping young women accomplish goals and grow into independent young women.”
Ray Saavedra a member of Kappa Sigma and a participant of the Moon Ball event mentioned that proceeds will also go to a charity of their choosing, Military Heroes Campaign.
Military Heroes Campaign honors and aids thousands of wounded military veterans returning from active duty.
“We hope to help raise enough money for the charity and good public relations among the community and the school itself,” said Saavedra.
Saavedra stresses the importance of following Kappa Sigma’s four main pillars: Leadership, Fellowship, Scholarship, and Service.
The Moon Ball event not only donates to support Girls on the Run and the Military Heroes Campaign, but also allows CSUB students to get involved on their campus. Students and staff engage in a friendly sport outside of a structured classroom setting.
Students are able to see CSUB professors and staff members in a whole new setting, and professors are able to challenge their students in a different environment.
“The friendly competition doesn’t hurt. Especially if you get to spike on one of your favorite professors,” said Guenette.
The event stimulates campus life and gets CSUB students and faculty outside of the classroom.
Guenette hopes the Moon Ball tournament will continue at CSUB for years to come, as it builds student and professor relationships and assists charities.
Registration for the event was held on April 27 in front of the Student Union. Any student or staff member of CSUB can participate in the event. Teams can have a minimum of six people and a maximum of 15.
