State High Girls Soccer Team Launches Campaign to Support Tides Program

The State College Area High School girls soccer team has motto of “Grit, Passion and Service,” and that shines through each year with the Lady Little Lions’ annual service campaign off the field. For 2022, the “When Soccer Becomes Greater” campaign will benefit local nonprofit grief support program Tides.

“As a senior class that has experienced the loss of two of our peers, we truly believe the work of Tides is invaluable to our community and so we knew it was the organization we wanted to support this season,” senior Avi Mazer said in a news release.

To begin the campaign, the team will sell bracelets promoting Tides, seek donations from community members and canvas local businesses for their support. 

Founded by Leslie Finton in 2003, the State College-based Tides has continued to grow to support the children, teens and adults in central Pennsylvania who have experienced the death of a close family member or friend. Through its multiple programs, Tides provides a safe haven for participants to share freely without fear of judgment.

“The goal of Tides is to provide a place where individuals of all ages can come together with others who understand the impact of losing someone important in their life. We’re able to form these connections through our Tides Nights and school programming.” Holly Oxendale, Tides executive director, said.

Funds raised through the “When Soccer Becomes Greater” campaign will directly support individuals of all ages who participate in Tides programs. In 2021, the campaign’s fundraising efforts raised over $10,000 to help Strawberry Fields’ Good Day Café.

“We are excited to partner with the girls’ soccer team, not only to raise funds for Tides, but also bring awareness of the impact a positive support system has on those who are grieving,” Oxendale said.

Those who are interested in supporting Tides through the “When Soccer Becomes Greater” campaign, can make contributions at tidesprogram.org/wsbg. More information about Tides can be found online at tidesprogram.org. 

Learn more about the history of When Soccer Becomes Greater by visiting its page on the State College Area School District website .