CARLISLE, Pa. - For Dickinson men's lacrosse head coach Dave Webster and his program, there is an annual rite of passage that transcends the playing field. For the past 19 years, before the team even begins their competitive season preparation, they gather on the college's sand volleyball courts for something bigger than themselves: back on September 19th they held their annual 24-hour Volleyball-a-Thon to benefit the Greater Pennsylvania Region Chapter of the American Red Cross.

Throughout the marathon event, players rotated through shifts on the sand courts while other campus teams, clubs, and organizations joined them to help push through the challenging overnight hours when exhaustion set in. The event has become more than just a fundraiser—it's evolved into a cornerstone experience that defines what it means to be part of Red Devil lacrosse.

For senior Sam Bunten, the Volleyball-a-Thon represents everything the program stands for. "The event is an annual highlight for our team," Bunten explained. "It's a full 24 hours of fun and team bonding, bringing together various groups from across campus. While the physical event is a blast, we are most proud of our fundraising efforts and the ability to give back. The Carlisle community is an incredible supporter of our team and Dickinson, so having the opportunity to support an amazing organization in return is truly the best feeling."

The event also serves as an important introduction for newcomers to the program. Freshman Charlie Cunningham experienced his first Volleyball-a-Thon this year and came away with a deeper appreciation for what Dickinson lacrosse represents. "The event was an unforgettable experience that pushed me to grow both as an athlete and as a person," Cunningham said. "The dedication, teamwork, and perseverance that everyone participating portrayed was a great reflection of the Dickinson community. Each game brought the team closer while providing connection, pride, and long-lasting memories."

For Coach Webster, the event's significance extends far beyond the volleyball court and even beyond his own program. "This was our 19th annual Volleyball-a-Thon. We raised a record $20,700 this year. Overall, we have now raised over the 19 years $250,000 for the Red Cross," Webster stated proudly. "Every year this is a highlight of the fall semester for our program. Our young men learn so much from running this event and have great fun connecting with each other. It's a great team bonding experience while also providing much needed resources for our community. We are grateful for the opportunity to make a difference."

As the four-time Centennial Conference Champion and National Finalist Red Devils look ahead to their 2026 season, they do so with the knowledge that their impact has already been felt not just in wins and losses, but in the lives touched by their commitment to service and community.