On Friday, March 4, the Pre-Physician Assistant (Pre-PA) Club is hosting The Spike for St. Clare volleyball tournament to raise money for St. Clare Health Mission. St. Clare is a free clinic that provides health care to uninsured residents of the La Crosse area. All money that is collected from the tournament will be donated.  

St. Clare started in 1992 when, according to their website, health and social service organizations wanted to address the health care issue for the poor and uninsured. Over the past 30 years, St. Clare has served over 18,000 people of the La Crosse community. 

In past years, the Pre-PA club has fundraised for lung cancer, but this year President Bella Hebert organized the fundraiser to support St. Clare. This fundraiser started about 20 years ago. “In the past, the Pre PA club has done ice fishing, dodgeball, and now volleyball,” said Hebert.  

“They need a lot of work done and a lot of supplies,” said Hebert. “We have a lot of members volunteer there, and they don’t get any outside money.” 

Team registration ends this Friday, Feb. 25, and costs $30 per team. Teams of 6-8 people are allowed and you can register on the Pre PA club’s website. The tournament will take place at the Recreational Eagle Center’s multiactivity courts. Check-in starts at 3:30 pm and play will start at 4 pm on March 4th.  

“The top three teams will receive cash prizes, and we will also be having a raffle,” said Hebert. 

The raffle involves first place winners getting $150, second place $100, and third place $75. The raffle isn’t just for players but also for people who want to help in any way they can. The Pre-PA club is accepting donations from the public on their website. Hebert said those who can’t donate money can donate medical supplies or volunteer time to St. Clare. 

“Reaching out to businesses and trying to find volunteers has been a hard task, but I know it will all be worth it,” said Hebert.