Despite the cold, Rolling Meadows is thinking pink

Three weeks ago, wearing pink T-shirts with names on the back, Rolling Meadows softball players were competing in their first games of the season while enjoying temperatures in the high 70s in Orlando, Fla.

Tuesday afternoon, the Mustangs found themselves playing in the low 40s on their own diamond.

But they were still able to smile after getting a 5-3 win over Fenton (4-4) in the nonconference game, one day before the opening their Mid-Suburban League at Hoffman Estates.

Those pink T-shirts were ordered special for the Florida trip.

Although the Mustangs were back in the their familiar purple colors Tuesday, the pink shirts have not been retired.

They will return on May 13 when the Mustangs host Wheeling for breast cancer awareness day.

Meadows associate principal Lisa DaRocha, a former standout catcher at Barrington High School for Hall of Fame coach Pam Devins, thought of the idea when she saw Mustangs coach Tony Wolanski getting the pink shirts approved in the athletic office.

"She saw them and said 'what would you think of doing a breast cancer awareness game?' " Wolanski said. "I said sure and I would ask the kids. Our captains (seniors Maddy Urban and Libby Marsh) right away said they wanted to do it. My mom had cancer and my dad died from it. I always think it's good when you can raise money for the cure and hopefully we can that night."

Urban, who ranks 19th in her senior class and sports a 5.28 GPA, said she didn't have to think a second to say yes.

"It's an honor to be able to give back while playing sports," said Urban, a veteran all-area shortstop who entered Tuesday's game batting .525 and went 2-for-4 with a 2-run double in the fifth inning. "I've had family members with cancer and it's nice to show your support."

Athletic director Jim Voyles gave his support, as did as Wheeling softball coach Beth Anderson.

"Beth is working hand in hand with us," Wolanski said. "She is gung-ho about it, too. They will be wearing blue T-shirts with pink lettering."

Donations for the cause will be taken at the gate.

The weather should be warmer than Tuesday.

"But we played in a game where it was snowing last year, so this was not really the coldest," said Urban, who plans to study international business at St. Louis University. "We're just happy to play whenever we have the chance."

Freshman Josie Suchecki also had a 2-run double in the Mustangs' 4-run fifth inning.

Winning pitcher Mueller (2-0), a sophomore, went the first four innings (1 strikeout, 1 walk) while Suchecki earned the save with 2 strikeouts in the final three innings. She retired the last six batters in a row.

Maryclare Loughery, Abby Matayka and Kelly Keyzer each had 1 hit for the Mustangs.