Three young basketballers will cut years of hair growth at a Hobart stadium next month to raise money for children with cancer and donate their locks to be made into wigs.
Mackenzie Bellette, Charlize Dyke and Layla Cranefield will get the chop at centre court during the Spirit of George basketball tournament at Warrane Basketball Stadium on Saturday August 15.
The trio became close friends after joining the Grenadiers Basketball Club earlier this year and discovered they had all been growing their hair for years with the same goal of one day donating it.
They will cut their hair in honour of George McNees, who died from brain cancer in 2024 at the age of nine.
George was diagnosed with a brain tumour at just 11 months old and played basketball with the Grenadiers.
Bellette, 13, said seeing her mum’s hairdresser’s daughter do the same thing inspired her years ago.
“I’m friends with George’s sister and so glad I can do this to honour her brother,” she said.
“We’re all having minimum 20cm of hair chopped off. I’m a little bit nervous, but I feel really good about it.”
Cranefield, 12, said doing it alongside her friends made the moment even more special.
“I can’t think of any greater honour than to donate my hair as well as fundraise for the Kids With Cancer Foundation in memory of George,” she said.
“To do it with two of my best friends by my side means the world to me.”
Dyke, 12, said the trio had always supported each other.
“We’ve always had each other’s backs and now we’re standing together to help other kids too,” she said.
“I hope this brings a smile to someone who needs it most.”
George’s mother Sarah McNees said the family was touched by what the girls were doing.
“It helps our family’s heart knowing that George has left such a positive impact on the world,” she said.
“Our family is extremely grateful and proud of the girls for not only raising money but also raising awareness for childhood cancer.”
The Spirit of George tournament, run by Basketball United for under 8s and under 10s, was created to celebrate the sportsmanship, courage and determination George was known for.
Funds raised will support the creation of wigs for children, financial assistance for families and paediatric oncology hospitals across the country.
To donate, visit the fundraiser.
