More than a game: Dean Janikowski’s mission
For every point, kicker donates to cancer research
WSU kicker Dean Janikowski kicks a field goal during an NCAA football game against Colorado State, Sep. 17.
December 5, 2022
Football is more than just a game. WSU’s kicker Dean Janikowski exemplifies that more than many other athletes.
In light of the Apple Cup fesitivies and mostly friendly banter between the two rivals of University of Washington and WSU, one tweet sparked more eyes on a movement that the kicker has done during his time at WSU.
That tweet, which was from the account of a UW supporter, poked fun at the celebration the kicker had early in the game to put his team up 3-0. Following its conclusion, Janikowski replied to give some context on the matter and why he celebrated as hard as he did.
“I know you didn’t know, but every field goal I make is $507.9 dollars donated to kids with cancer and $169.3 dollars for every extra point. So I get pretty excited to be able to raise money for those who can’t afford cancer treaments :),” he Tweeted.
The cause, run through PledgeIt is called “More than a Kick.” His goal is to raise money for those who have cannot afford to raise the money on their own as he has attested to be surrounded by cancer growing up.
On January 22, Janikowski lost his mother due to cancer and since then has raised more than $17,000 for the Heather Janikowski Foundation.
Following the mix-up, the very same Twitter user who had poked fun at the antics of the kicker was a catalyst for UW support for the foundation. Huskies in the know raised more than $2,000 to donate to the foundation with a message of unity despite the rivalry.
“We’re a bunch of Dawgs who like to trash talk, but love to support anyone. Husky or Coug, working to actively support cancer research and better their community. Help us out and pitch in to help Dean meet his goal,” they said.
On the field, Jankiowksi has been one of the better kickers in the conference over the past two years. A 2021 All-Pac-12 Conference First Team member, he is 25-31 on field goals for his career, good for a percentage of 80.65%.
The goal set by the campaign is $25,000. So far, Dean and his supporters have raised $17,696.
To prove the might of the Cougs and to help support Dean in his fight, the link to donate is: here.
