At the Cyclones Volleyball Dig Pink game on Oct. 8, the team honored player Makenzie Kitzberger’s mother, who died of breast cancer on Sept. 4, 2024.
Milissa Kitzberg was a graduate of and volleyball player for Anoka-Ramsey in 1998-1999, who the Cyclones played on Oct. 8; both teams and their coaches wore pink accents during the game.
“Milissa Kitzberger was a kind and compassionate woman who loved God, love people, and poured her heart into her family and friends. She was always ready to listen, help, or bring laughter to make sure those around her felt valued and loved. Most of all her greatest joy was being a mom to her five amazing children,” noted teammate Jaden Sandquist before the game started.
Milissa was first diagnosed with breast cancer July 2020 and underwent chemotherapy, radiation, and surgeries. She entered remission in March 2022 and lived the next two years in good health, living life without being defined by her illness.
Unfortunately, the cancer returned in March 2024, and it had spread through her body and bones. That September, Milissa passed away on her 45th birthday.
While Sandquist read a tribute about Milissa, Jadyn Young and Madison Biegler presented a handmade quilt and bouquet to Makenzie and her family. The quilt was made by Presley Kenning, an SCTCC graduate who played for the Cyclones, with help cutting squares from sophomores on the team.
The Cyclones went on to win the game 3-1. They play next on Friday at Rochester. The next home game is Oct. 15.