Members of the Sul Ross State University men’s soccer team are organizing fundraisers and community events to support a teammate diagnosed with cancer, aiming to raise awareness and help cover medical expenses.
Sophomore defender Brady Wade initially sought treatment for what appeared to be a minor knee injury in early February. After undergoing multiple MRIs and scans, doctors diagnosed him with osteosarcoma, a rare form of bone cancer. Wade took time to process the diagnosis before sharing the news with teammates.
Once informed, the team quickly mobilized. Sophomores Diego Flamenco and Jesus Duque, along with senior Lewis Coates, launched a GoFundMe campaign to assist with Wade’s medical costs. Flamenco and Duque, who have known Wade since high school, noted that the diagnosis came as a surprise given his overall health aside from a prior injury.
In addition to the online fundraiser, the players are organizing a youth soccer camp scheduled for April 26, with proceeds directed to the same effort. Organizers plan to streamline donations by directing contributions from the camp straight to the GoFundMe campaign.
The event, titled “Goals for Brady,” is also intended to provide a positive outlet for the community while supporting Wade. The team has reached out to local elementary schools and plans broader outreach to encourage participation.
Osteosarcoma is a rare cancer that forms in the cells of bones. According to the American Cancer Society, about 1,000 new cases are diagnosed annually in the United States, with roughly half occurring in children and adolescents.
Wade hopes his experience will raise awareness and help others facing similar diagnoses.
Teammates emphasized the importance of community support, noting that the effort is not only about helping Wade but also about raising awareness of the disease.
The “Goals for Brady” soccer camp is scheduled for 2 p.m. April 26 at the Sul Ross State Rec Field. The camp is open to children ages 6 to 14 of all skill levels.
Donations can also be made through the team’s GoFundMe campaign.
