Saints Get Their Pink On at Pink Out

Every October, campus transforms into a blaze of autumnal gold, red, orange, and brown. But on October 10 in Pigott Arena, it was pink as far as the eye could see! Canterbury has no shortage of beloved traditions, but few are more spirited than the Varsity Volleyball team’s annual Pink Out game to promote breast cancer awareness. 

For the past 16 years, the team, led by Coach E.J. Soifersmith, has encouraged everyone on campus to get involved, though few need convincing! During the week leading up to the event, the team sold pink Canterbury hoodies and t-shirts and held a bake sale to benefit Susan G. Komen Connecticut. Members of the J.V. Volleyball team—many of whom wore pink all week to build excitement—made posters and banners to promote the event around campus and decorate Pigott for the match. 

On Friday, students, friends, families, and faculty and staff turned out in a parade of bubblegum, rose, and fuchsia. This year’s attire surely set a new standard for years to come, with students donning wigs, tutus, facepaint, and other festive, all-pink costumes. The arena erupted into cheers as the Saints defeated Ethel Walker School in four sets and, in a burst of excitement, students in the bleachers rushed the court for a celebratory group hug.

“It was an incredible evening for an incredibly important cause,” says Coach E.J.. “The community was extremely supportive on every level—from baking for the bake sale to buying t-shirts and coming to the match—we appreciated it all! The gym was a sea of pink, and the energy was electric.”

“It's an awesome event that brings the whole school together,” agrees team captain Katie Davenport ’26. “This is one of the biggest sporting events that Canterbury puts on, and the School always brings great energy and support for the team and the cause.”

Pink Out is always more than just a fun event. It’s a tradition with an important message: Saints show up for Saints, and they always come together for a good cause.

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