Pinning Down Cancer—One Match at a Time
When six-year-old Rocco from Waddell steps onto the wrestling mat, he looks like a tiny tornado in motion—fast, focused, and full of determination. But this summer, he did something even bigger than winning matches. Rocco helped raise more than $2,000 for the V Foundation for Cancer Research, proving that even the smallest wrestlers can make a big difference.
The V Foundation supports scientists and doctors working to find better treatments and cures for cancer. Each year, they hold a national contest where athletes of all ages can compete for votes and raise money for the cause. Rocco entered through the contest’s youth division, combining his love of wrestling with his desire to help families affected by cancer.
With the help of his family and friends, Rocco set a fundraising goal and got to work. His parents shared his story online, his teammates and community members helped spread the word, and soon donations started coming in from around Arizona. What began as a fun challenge turned into something much bigger—by the end of the campaign, Rocco had raised more than $2,000 for cancer research.
Rocco practices several times a week and competes in tournaments around the Valley. His coaches describe him as hardworking and dedicated, always ready to put in the effort to improve. That same energy carried over into his fundraising efforts. Even when progress slowed, Rocco stayed determined to reach his goal.
The experience taught him more than just how to wrestle—it showed him the power of teamwork, kindness, and never giving up. His family says the outpouring of support from the community made the project even more meaningful. Neighbors, friends, and even strangers joined in to cheer him on, helping him realize that one person’s actions can inspire many others to do good.
After the contest ended, Rocco returned to his usual routine of school, practice, and family time, but the lessons from his summer of giving stuck with him. He’s already thinking about how to get involved again next year and hopes to raise even more money for the cause.
Rocco’s story is a reminder that you don’t have to be a grown-up to make a difference. Whether it’s helping a friend, supporting a charity, or finding creative ways to give back, every small act of kindness adds up to something bigger.
This young wrestler has shown that real champions don’t just win medals—they use their strength, determination, and heart to help others.
Way to go, Rocco! You’ve pinned down what it means to be a hero—one match, and one good deed, at a time.
