Dig Pink Celebrates Oct. 17 vs. Shoreline

The Orcas celebrate Dig Pink night this Friday, October 17th 7pm versus Shoreline College. Student Athlete Reporter Javier Moreno caught up with Head Coach Cody Luthy about the special event.

How do you connect with the competitive side of the game with the emotional significance of this event?

Dig Pink is always emotional because it represents something bigger than volleyball. We play hard every match, but this one carries an added purpose by honoring survivors, remembering those we have lost, and showing support for everyone impacted by breast cancer. Having gone through my own experience with a Hodgkin lymphoma diagnosis, I understand how much strength and community matter in moments like these. That perspective helps me appreciate what this night means on a personal level.

How do you prepare the team mentally for such a meaningful night, and what kind of energy do you hope the team brings out during the Dig Pink game?

We talk a lot about channeling emotion into focus. I remind the players that playing with purpose does not mean playing tight. It means being present, grateful, and fearless. I hope fans see a team that is passionate, connected, and full of gratitude to compete for something beyond the scoreboard.

In what ways can the volleyball program continue to make a positive difference off the court?

Community engagement is very important for us. Whether it is partnerships with youth sports, involvement in our campus community, or awareness events like Dig Pink, I want our athletes to recognize their platform and use it to uplift others. The habits of service, leadership, and empathy are just as important as any skill we develop on the court.

How do you balance the celebration and awareness aspect of Dig Pink with the focus of a competitive match?

We treat it as both a celebration of life and resilience and an opportunity to compete with heart. Once the whistle blows, we play the game we love, but that deeper meaning is always there in the background, reminding us why we do what we do.

Who inspires you most, and how does their influence impact your coaching style at Whatcom?

My biggest inspiration comes from my past players and coaches who showed me what authentic leadership looks like. I have learned that great coaching is not about control. It is about connection, and that is the mindset I bring to Whatcom every day.

Thank you again for putting this piece together, Javier. Best of luck to you and the men's soccer team for the rest of your season.

Player spotlight: Meet Kamryn Hermanutz, a standout freshman making a big impact for the Orcas this season. At just 5'8. Kamryn has already started 10 matches for Whatcom- 4 being in Conference. Bringing energy, consistency, and leadership every time she steps on the court.

As an Outside hitter, Kamryn is known for her explosive attacks, sharp instincts, and relentless work ethic- but what truly sets her apart is her leadership. Whether it's encouraging teammates during tough sets or setting the tone in practice, Kamryn leads by example both on and off the court. Her commitment, positivity, and drive reflect exactly what it means to be an Orca.

As one of the team's leaders, what does this event mean to you personally?

To me personally, having multiple family members struggle with cancer, I am happy to be a part of a cause bringing awareness to cancer and supporting those who have struggled.

What does playing a game wearing the Whatcom jersey during a cause-driven game like this mean to you?

Wearing the Whatcom jersey during a cause-driven game means so much more to me than representing our school and team, tonight we are representing those currently battling or who have battled breast cancer. This brings a purpose to our fight giving us more drive to show out for these individuals.

How do you stay focused while also being a part of something bigger than the sport?

I personally focus on my individual goals I have set to improve on. Focusing on what I need to do for the team, while also remembering the program-I am so grateful to be a part of. This will play into Dig Pink night as I know I am playing for a greater cause, fueling my focus for those who have battled.

If you could describe the spirit of the Dig Pink game in one word, what would it be and why?

I would choose "FIGHT", because tonight is about fighting for each other and those battling cancer. This cause also lights the fire a little brighter on the court because we are battling for a cause bigger than Whatcom or any school.

What motivates you the most when you step onto that court?

Every night at a game or practice when I step on the court, I feel motivated by God, the love of my family and team which ignites my love for the game. Each game lights a fire inside me to get better and battle my hardest for the girls around me. I feel

extra motivated by the fact that I get to battle and show out for a cause that is important to me and my family, I am grateful that I get to bring awareness to those who have fought so hard in my life.

Player Spotlight: Meet Kyndis Myers! 6'2 Middle blocker sophomore has had an incredible start for the Orcas. Kyndis has started 13 of 14 matches this season for the Orcas and she continues to prove why she needs to be on the court.

Kyndis is known for her defensive resilience and effort as she blocks any school from taking advantage on our court.!!

As one of the team's leaders, what does this event mean to you personally? As a leader, this event is a reminder that we can reach people beyond the court. Dig Pink night makes me grateful that I get to play in something meaningful and stand in support of those affected by breast cancer.

What does playing a game wearing the Whatcom jersey during a cause-driven game like this mean to you?

Putting on the Whatcom jersey reminds me that I'm representing something much bigger than volleyball. It's a privilege to wear it knowing the cause we're playing for and for those who don't have the chance to play like we do.

How do you stay focused while also being a part of something bigger than the sport?

I stay focused by remembering that giving it my all is a form of honoring the cause. Reminding myself that it's not just about winning but showing strength and respect for those who fight bigger battles outside the court.

If you could describe the spirit of the Dig Pink game in one word, what would it be and why?

I would say unity because on this night it's not just about our team. On Dig Pink night everyone shares a common purpose, and volleyball is the thing that brings us all together.

What motivates you the most when you step onto that court?

Something that motivates me most is knowing that I'm playing for more than myself. It's for my teammates, the school, and those being honored through Dig Pink night.