The #29 Gwen Effect: A Scholarship Fund in Her Honor

The #29 Gwen Effect Memorial Scholarship: Because every team needs a Gwen

In Loving Memory of Gwen “#29” Hovorka. All donations will be matched $1-for-$1 thanks to a generous anonymous Foundation.

Kindness was her trademark. Softball was her passion. Help us honor Gwen’s legacy with The #29 Gwen Effect Memorial Scholarship—awarded to student-athletes who lead with heart, lift up others, and love to play the way Gwen did. Let’s carry #29 forward together.

With love and endless gratitude,

—The Hovorka Family

#The29GwenEffect #BeLikeGwen #Iheart29

➡️ Scroll down to read Gwen’s story and how you can help.

Gwen’s Story:

She was a gifted athlete, a natural leader, and the kind of teammate you never forget. From the first time she picked up a ball, it was clear, she was made for the game. Gwen was a standout on every field she stepped onto, earning awards and accolades in both high school and college, where she continued her athletic career with the same fierce determination, grit, and grace.

But it wasn’t just about talent. Gwen played with heart. She worked harder, cheered louder, and always made room for others to shine. She was the kind of player who lifted everyone around her whether in a championship game or practice on a cold morning.

In November of 2022, her senior year of college, Gwen was suddenly diagnosed with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL). It was a shock to all of us. Her illness moved quickly and despite incredible strength and a courageous fight, we unexpectedly lost her far too soon in September of 2023.

The speed of her passing left a hole in our lives that words can’t begin to fill. But her impact, the love she gave, the joy she spread, and the lives she touched, will never fade.

And because of the generous Foundation matching each $1-for-$1, #TheGwenEffect will continue, we will be able to start this scholarship in her name to honor not only Gwen’s athletic achievements, but, most importantly, the way she made people feel. With every year her scholarship award is given, every story shared, we’ll carry #29 forward with love, pride, and purpose for years to come.

#The29GwenEffect #BeLikeGwen #Iheart29

How can I help: