LORETTO, Pa. (Oct. 21, 2011) – The Saint Francis University swimming team will join with its counterparts from Duquesne and Central Conn. State for a good cause in advance of Oct. 29's tri-meet in Pittsburgh.  The three teams have joined forces in an attempt to raise $1,000 each to donate to The American Cancer Society of Pittsburgh.

Throughout the month of October all three programs will be wearing pink caps and raising money for breast cancer awareness.

“We are really excited to be a part of the think pink meet in Pittsburgh next weekend,” said Red Flash captain Jessica Dunn (Bristow, Va./Seton School).  “Duquesne and Central Connecticut are great competitors for us and it's awesome to be able to collaborate with them in this fundraiser.  Cancer has affected many of our families and friends and we are honored to contribute what we can to help fight for a cure.  It will definitely be an exciting meet with a great cause behind it.”

The Red Flash will kick off their efforts at a Swim-A-Thon on Oct. 22 at the Stokes Natatorium.  Each member of the team will swim as many laps as they can between 10:30-11 a.m.  Fans can make a straight donation for the cause or pledge per lap.  The team will present a check for the total amount raised to the Duquesne team prior to the meet.

After the completion of these events the three teams will submit their efforts to The American Cancer Society of Pittsburgh. The hope is for this to become a yearly event, with the last fundraiser being at the home team's pool. All donations will go to the team's local Cancer Society.

Even if you are unable to make the Swim-A-Thon or tri-meet, donations are welcome.  Make your pledge today by contacting Saint Francis head swimming coach, Patrick Gallagher at pgallagher@francis.edu or 814-472-3159.