The Team Jack Foundation (takedownthetumor.org) is set to hold its 4th Annual Takedown the Tumor Youth Wrestling Tournament! The Takedown will be held on Sunday, Dec. 7 at Papillion La Vista High School and is open to both boys and girls, pre-kindergarten through eighth grade. There are also divisions for Old Timers and Moms that want to get out on the mat. Three-foot-tall trophies will be awarded to the first winner in each youth bracket, with second through fourth place receiving custom four-inch custom medals. The proceeds from the event will benefit childhood brain cancer research.
The family of Kieran Akerson of Valley, Nebraska, is organizing the event. Kieran is an avid wrestler and in December 2020 was diagnosed with brain cancer. He underwent tumor resection surgery and continues to be monitored for further growth. After learning about the outdated treatments and severe lack of research funding for the disease, Kieran’s parents, Josh & Marie, wanted to do something to help. Thankfully, Kieran is back on the mat and is two-time Class A Nebraska State Wrestling medalist!
In addition to wrestling, the registrants can raise funds to help Team. Each fundraiser gets a unique donation link and earns prizes for various levels reached. In the first three years of the Takedown, more than $210,000 has been raised for childhood brain cancer research, of which $62,000 has come from fundraising by the wrestlers!
To register and view sponsorship opportunities, visit takedownthetumor.org.