Shady Side Academy lacrosse teams raise $30,000 in 'Face-Off Against Suicide'

The Shady Side Academy boys’ and girls’ varsity lacrosse teams raised more than $30,000 for the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention during a one-day event on May 4.

The SSA Lacrosse Face-Off Against Suicide was spearheaded by team captain Ronan O’Connor, who lost his older brother to suicide six years ago.

Also helping to organize the event were lacrosse team members Colm O’Connor (Ronan’s brother), Jack Naughton, Ella Benec, Emmie Lau and Abby Todd, along with SSA varsity coaches Cam Thompson and Katy Phillips.

Donations poured in through sponsorships, event-day raffles, auctions and sales.

The event surpassed the fundraising goal of $25,000, a total presented with a ceremonial check on the field at the end of the event.

When all donations were tallied, the total pushed upwards of $31,000.

The event featured a full day of youth and high school lacrosse games, along with an instructional clinic, auctions, 50-50 raffle, fastest shot competitions, Major League Lacrosse player appearances and autograph signings, T-shirt and gear sales, lacrosse stringing table, food truck, Kona Ice truck and an AFSP informational tent.

Game highlights included an evening doubleheader with the SSA boys’ and girls’ varsity lacrosse teams taking on Western Reserve Academy.