ALEXANDRIA, La. (WNTZ) – As the 2025 high school football season gets underway, Rapides Regional Medical Center and Rapides Parish schools are marking the fourth year of their “Kick Cancer” partnership, which has raised $13,000 for the American Cancer Society since 2022.

The program allows football teams to raise money for cancer research and patient support based on performance on the field. Schools earn $20 for every field goal and $10 for every successful point-after-touchdown during both the regular and postseason. Each school is guaranteed a minimum $500 contribution, with Rapides Regional matching the donations.

Last year, Alexandria Senior High secured its third straight Golden Boot Award by generating $830 from 75 extra points and four field goals. Tioga High School also surpassed the minimum with $560, earned from 46 extra points and five field goals.

Since its launch, the program has included ASH, Bolton, Buckeye, Menard, Northwood, Peabody, Pineville and Tioga, combining efforts to raise thousands for cancer support services and research.

“While we had a successful season on the field, the fact we helped raise money to fight cancer and support cancer patients is more important,” ASH coach Thomas Bachman said. “Cancer impacts everyone, directly or indirectly, and this is a great way for the young men who play football to understand the impact they can have in our community.”

Cancer remains a pressing health issue in Central Louisiana, where the annual cancer death rate is 175.3 per 100,000 residents, higher than the national rate of 155.6. Lung cancer leads among causes of cancer deaths in the region, followed by breast, prostate and colorectal cancers.

Charla H. Ducote, vice president of public relations, marketing and business development at Rapides Regional Medical Center, said the program reflects the hospital’s mission to improve community health.

“We are proud to continue this program with our local high schools to raise money for the American Cancer Society, to raise money for their own programs and to raise awareness of the need for cancer screenings in our area,” Ducote said.