FAIRFIELD, Conn. – The Fairfield University Women's Soccer program has announced their partnership with Avery's Little Army, an organization dedicated to advance pediatric brain and other cancer research through funding, provide support and assistance to families battling pediatric cancer, and promote activities to raise awareness. The Stags will be raising money for the organization throughout the entire 2024 season and will donate $5 per every goal scored during the campaign. The organization was started in the memory of Avery Marie Lafferty, who passed away in 2024 from a brain tumor.
 
"Our program, like so many in the local soccer community, has been affected by Avery," Head Coach David Barrett said. "We hope that, in some small way, we can help keep her memory alive bringing attention to the impact pediatric brain cancer has on families. Avery loved scoring goals, and was so good at it, so we want to make sure every time we score this season it's done with her in mind."
 
"On a family ski trip in December 2021 our daughter Avery had repeated headaches and after a CT scan in a small emergency room in Brattleboro VT we heard the words from the ER doctor that would forever change our lives "I am so sorry, it is a 'mass' in a really tough spot, I am so, so, incredibly sorry."  Paul Lafferty, the father of Avery said. "Avery was ultimately diagnosed with a Diffuse Midline Glioma, a form of pediatric brain cancer with a near 0% survival rate and life expectancy of 6 to 18 months.   Despite four brain surgeries, radiation treatments and a continuous regiment of experimental medications Avery rebelled against the notion that her disease could limit or define her, staying true to her passions for school, soccer, skiing and most of all putting smiles on people's faces.   Avery fought her cancer until her last breath and now we are taking up that fight to fund cancer research and support families facing their own pediatric cancer diagnosis."
 
Avery's Little Army is an organization founded by the family of Avery Marie Lafferty, who was diagnosed with a brain tumor at just nine years old and passed away from the disease less than three years later. Their mission is to honor the legacy of Avery, an exceptionally brave cancer rebel, and patients like her. The organization strives to advance pediatric brain and other cancer research through funding, provide support and assistance to families battling pediatric cancer, and promote activities to raise awareness.
 
While sports became harder and harder for her post diagnosis, Avery had a natural athletic ability, particularly for soccer.  She fought with bravery and strength for over two and a half years, yet she never complained and continued to find ways to make her family and everyone around her smile. She taught others how to be resilient and keep going no matter the challenge. With this organization, her family is continuing to honor her legacy and help other children who face a cancer diagnosis.
 
The women's soccer program will be raising money through donations throughout the entire season online and at home games. The Stags will also donate $5 per every goal scored throughout the campaign. Fans can donate to Avery's Little Army online.