On June 21, the Kingston Grenadiers will once again rally their community around a cause close to their hearts—the fight against brain tumours. Building on the impact of last year’s inaugural Grens Tackle Tumours event, this year’s effort promises to be another powerful day of meaning, connection and support.

What began as a tribute to long-time coach Dale Sands, whose legacy lives on in every player he mentored, has grown into a cornerstone initiative for the Grenadiers organization.

“This event was born out of something really sad, with Dale’s passing,” says Alexandra Reyes, president of the Kingston Grenadiers, “but it’s now part of our purpose as well.”

This year’s event kicks off a week before game day, as all Grenadiers teams will take part in Kingston’s Brain Tumour Walk on June 15. Players will wear their jerseys, while raising awareness and fundraising momentum. Among those walking will be this year’s honourary captain, seven-year-old brain tumour survivor Walter Massett, alongside his mom, Rae-Anne, who has been a passionate advocate and supporter of the cause.

Game day itself begins at 11 a.m. on June 21 at Richardson Memorial Stadium with the U14 game, which will see last year’s honourary captain, Robbie Watson, do the coin toss. Then, Walter will suit up with the team and score the opening touchdown.

“He’s going to run a couple of practice plays with the team beforehand,” Alexandra says. “We want him to feel like part of the team and he will be.”

The day will continue with two more games, at 1:30 p.m. and 4 p.m., and throughout the event, there will be resources available, as well as giveaways. Sponsors have stepped up to engage more deeply this year, and the Grenadiers hope this is just the beginning of a longer-term initiative that extends beyond game day.

At its heart, this event is about more than football. It’s about honouring Dale’s legacy, supporting families like Robbie’s and Walter’s, and helping young athletes see the bigger picture.

“As a brain tumour survivor, Walter’s journey is just one of so many in our community,” Walter’s mom, Rae-Anne Massett, shared. “This event is a powerful opportunity to raise awareness, remember those we’ve lost, like the Grenadiers’ own coach, Dale Sands, and support families still facing a brain tumour diagnosis. We’re proud to be a part of something that brings hope and connection.”

As Reyes puts it, “When kids hear about other kids going through things like this, it hits differently. It gives them perspective. And that’s something they’ll carry with them far beyond the field.”

Stay tuned for photos, updates, and highlights from game day, and don’t forget to cheer loud for Walter’s touchdown.

Learn more about the Kingston brain tumour community.