The inspiration for this fundraiser comes from former Demon Deacon field hockey player Maria Whitehead, who lost her battle with Melanoma at the young age of 25. Although small in stature, her hard work and determination never went unnoticed. Her relentless belief and pursuit of her dreams to become a national champion empowered those around her and became a reality in 2002, when she led the Demon Deacons to their first ACC and NCAA championships. Her legacy has left an imprint on our lives and continues to inspire us all. For more on Maria and her story, see the OG&B piece here .

The Wake Forest field hockey team is hosting a pickleball tournament in order to spread awareness and raise money for Melanoma research. Please follow @fightforfive2026 on instagram for information and details about the tournament.

The funds we are raising will be used to help support the research to find a cure for Melanoma. The funds will be withdrawn and transferred to the following location:

Wake Forest Baptist Hospital

Office of Philanthropy

PO Box 571021

Winston-Salem NC 27157-1021

Thank you for helping to honor our forever #5.