A Community’s Grandpa: The Story of G-Pop’s Dedication;

There are heroes in this world who don’t wear capes; they wear a kind smile and bring Gatorade to high school sports practices. For our team, that hero is known simply as G-Pop.

G-Pop is the grandfather of one of our teammates, but to all of us, he’s our grandpa. In a group where many are raised by single parents or don’t have grandparents nearby, G-Pop fills a vital role, providing unwavering support when our own families can’t make it. For years, he has been a constant presence on the sidelines, rain or shine.

But behind his generous spirit, G-Pop has been carrying a heavy, silent burden.

The Weight of a Recent Loss;

This past year has been the hardest of G-Pop’s life. On Mother’s Day 2025, G-Pop suffered a devastating blow when he lost his mother to sudden cardiac arrest. Now, for the first time, he lives alone in his house. The silence in his home is a constant reminder of the woman he cared for, and the grief has added a heavy emotional layer to his physical struggles.

A Body and Spirit Under Strain;

Two years ago, G-Pop was seriously injured while working as a cremation operator. Lifting a heavy person caused a chronic lower back injury that has never healed. On top of this, he faces regular medical issues that complicate his recovery.

Lately, his condition has taken a frightening turn. G-Pop has begun losing his balance and falling. Because he lives alone, he has spent terrifying moments trapped on the floor, waiting for someone to arrive and help him up. Despite this, he has gritted his teeth through the pain, driving to every game just to ensure we feel seen and valued.

A Fight for Survival;

G-Pop’s dedication is now at risk due to a mounting financial crisis.

• Transportation: G-Pop does not own his own vehicle. He is currently driving the car registered in his late mother’s name, struggling every month to make the payment.

• The Cost of Living: He is caught in an impossible cycle, barely able to cover the car payment while still trying to afford electricity, food, and insurance.

• Physical Limitations: His injury has progressed to the point where even moving around his own home is a daily challenge.

The coolers of Gatorade and fresh fruit have stopped appearing as frequently—not because he doesn't want to be there, but because he simply can no longer afford the basic necessities of life.

Why We Need Your Help;

G-Pop may not be related to most of us by blood, but he is family by choice and action. He is a positive role model who embodies selflessness. We have started this campaign to rally behind the man who has always rallied behind us.

Our goal is to raise funds to help G-Pop:

• Secure Stable Housing & Utilities: Ensure his electricity stays on and his home remains a safe environment.

• Reliable Transportation: Help him resolve the car payment and insurance issues so he can attend his medical appointments and our games safely.

• Medical Expenses & Home Care: Cover costs for his chronic back injury and regular medical needs, and potentially provide safety measures to help with his falling episodes.

• Basic Needs: Ensure he has access to nutritious food and the daily essentials he has sacrificed to support us.

G-Pop asks for nothing. He has spent his life caring for others—from his mother to every athlete on this team. Now, it is our turn to be his "sideline champions."

Please donate, share his story, and help us give back to the heart of our team. Let’s make sure G-Pop knows he never has to fall alone again.

Thank you for supporting G-Pop.