AGAWAM, MA (June '08) - When they learned about Baystate Health's Rays of Hope, the New England Mutiny decided to join the effort to help raise awareness for breast cancer. New England defeated the Maine Tide 6-0 in Saturday's Women's Premier Soccer League match.

Mary-Frances Monroe notched her second hat trick of the season and also assisted on two more as the Mutiny improved to 7-1. Meghan Schnur scored her second goal of the season in as many games. Jenny Maurer and Erin Gatto each tallied a goal apiece for the sweep of the two games with the Tide.

The subplot to this particular match was the Mutiny's effort, in conjunction with Baystate Health's Rays of Hope, to bring awareness to breast cancer. The Mutiny wore pink jerseys which were auctioned off at the conclusion of the match.

Which jersey realized the biggest donation? Danielle Dakin's No. 5 jersey for $80. Moreover than the Mutiny's involvement in the event, the fans, opposition and even the officiating crew contributed to the cause.

In an unexpected gesture, the game officials (Scott McGrail, Nate Bailey, Llir Gaxhi and Kara Honthum) donated half their game checks to Rays of Hope.

"That was complete class on the part of this crew," stated Mutiny team owner Joe Ferrara.

The Maine Tide also showed their support by wearing pink ribbons affixed to their jerseys. Gina Horta, wife of head coach Tony Horta, donated pink soccer balls which were thrown out to the crowd by the players prior to the start of the match.

Even the Enfield U-9 Explosion, who participated in the pre-game walkout, got into the act by wearing pink caps. Bill Squires, a Rays of Hope volunteer, sang the national anthem.

"The enthusiasm of both the Mutiny and Maine Tide teams, including the game officials, volunteers and fans, was very touching. The fund-raising and outreach ideas the Mutiny had were unique and we are very pleased they chose to support Rays of Hope," said Michelle Graci, manager of Rays of Hope at Baystate Health Foundation.

"To have all these fans come out tonight is a testament to the vigor of the Mutiny within the community and a strong statement for the need to provide consciousness to breast cancer," added Ferrara.

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