Masuk Free Press

On Monday, October 6th at 6:30 PM, Masuk High School’s field hockey team took the field for more than just a regular season matchup. Their annual “Sticking It to Cancer” game had a greater purpose—supporting 13-year-old Joseph Frankel, a Jockey Hollow Middle School student who has been courageously fighting leukemia since the age of 10. 

The event not only ended with a hard-fought 1-0 win over Weston, thanks to a goal from senior Molly Kinahan, but also highlighted the power of sports to rally a community behind a meaningful cause.  

At halftime, Frankel delivered a heartfelt speech on the field, thanking the Masuk team, the supporters in the crowd, and Yale Hospital, where he has received treatment and found a network of support. “I’m just so grateful I got to be here tonight,” Frankel said. “I actually heard about this game last year, but it was on short notice and I couldn’t make it. I’m really grateful that I can be a part of it now.” He spoke about the long and difficult journey of cancer treatment. “Before I went through this, I thought it was just a quick doctor’s visit—one and done. But, there are so many different phases. I want people to know how hard it can be—especially at my age.” Frankel also shared how organizations like Camp Rising Sun, a summer camp for children and siblings impacted by cancer, have helped him through the process. “They gave me fun things to do to take my mind off everything. Everyone there feels like one big family.” 

That sense of family extended into the stands and across the turf on Monday night, as the Masuk community turned out in full force wearing orange and donating to the cause. The event included a bake sale featuring treats donated by families and supporters, and a 50/50 raffle that brought in additional funds. In a touching moment that captured the spirit of the night, the winner of the raffle donated their entire winnings back to Joseph Frankel and his family.  

“It’s honestly so fulfilling that we’re able to play not just to win games, but to help people in need and give back to the community,” said Emma Troesser, one of Masuk’s senior captains. Fellow captain Abby Troesser added, “It feels really good knowing that the proceeds from tonight are going directly to the Frankel family. And having the entire community come out to support—it’s amazing to know we made a difference.” 

For senior captain Molly Kinahan, whose mid-game goal sealed the win, the event was about more than just the scoreboard. “It brings our team so much closer to know we’re doing something for a good cause,” she said. “It gives everyone something meaningful to work toward.”

Though Frankel doesn’t personally know the players on the team, his story reached them through assistant coach Danielle Boucher—who also works as a school officer at Jockey Hollow, where he is a student. That connection made the event feel especially personal for the team.  

“This is something a lot of communities do really well,” said Abby. “It’s a tradition, and we’re proud to be part of it.” Emma hoped other teams will be inspired by the message behind the game. “Continue to spread positivity,” she said. “At the end of the day, it’s just a game. But this—it’s about something much bigger.”

Frankel admitted he once feared that being open about his illness might lead to judgement, but the support he’s received has been overwhelming. “I thought people might make fun of me,” he said. “But that’s never happened. Everyone’s been really supportive—way more than I could have expected.” 

As the clock ran out and the players celebrated their win, the real victory was clear: a powerful night of community, compassion, and connection. In coming together to support Frankel, Masuk proved that sometimes, the most meaningful moments in sports happen far beyond the final whistle.