BCHS Grad Battling Rare Cancer Determined to Keep Playing Football

Torryn Pinkard refuses to let Ewing sarcoma diagnosis define him as he pursues his college football dreams.

Apr. 17, 2026 at 12:00am

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A fragmented, geometric painting depicting the determined expression and athletic movements of a football player, rendered in Picasso's cubist style.A young football player's unwavering spirit shines through a cubist rendering of his determined expression and athletic form.Boulder City Today

Torryn Pinkard, a 2023 graduate of Boulder City High School, was diagnosed with Ewing sarcoma, a rare form of cancer, last June. Despite the diagnosis and ongoing chemotherapy treatments, the 21-year-old is determined to continue playing football at San Bernardino Valley College, where he is currently a member of the team. Pinkard's mother, Shannon, is fully aware of the challenges a cancer diagnosis can bring, having beaten cancer herself nearly two decades ago.

Why it matters

Pinkard's story highlights the resilience and determination of young athletes who refuse to let a serious illness derail their dreams. His journey also sheds light on the rare Ewing sarcoma cancer and the importance of community support for those battling such diseases.

The details

Pinkard began experiencing excruciating stomach pains last June, which led to the discovery of a tumor. He was soon diagnosed with Ewing sarcoma, a rare form of cancer that primarily affects children and young adults. Though surgery was not an option, Pinkard immediately began a course of chemotherapy treatments, which he continues to undergo. Despite the side effects, Pinkard remains committed to his football career, practicing with the San Bernardino Valley College team and hoping to receive medical clearance to play in the fall.

  • In June 2022, Pinkard began experiencing severe stomach pains.
  • Pinkard was diagnosed with Ewing sarcoma in June 2022.
  • Pinkard has completed 10 of the 17 scheduled chemotherapy sessions as of April 2023.

The players

Torryn Pinkard

A 2023 graduate of Boulder City High School who is currently a member of the San Bernardino Valley College football team. Pinkard was diagnosed with Ewing sarcoma, a rare form of cancer, in June 2022 and is undergoing chemotherapy treatments while continuing to pursue his football dreams.

Shannon Pinkard

Torryn Pinkard's mother, who fought and beat cancer nearly two decades ago. She is fully aware of the challenges a cancer diagnosis can bring and is supporting her son through his own battle.

Dr. Gil Contreras

The president of San Bernardino Valley College, who has expressed admiration for Torryn Pinkard's courage and determination in continuing to show up for his education and teammates despite his health challenges.

Rick Pontious

An assistant coach at San Bernardino Valley College who was Torryn Pinkard's position coach when he first joined the team. Pontious and his wife have become close to the Pinkard family over the past year and are supporting Torryn through his journey.

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What they’re saying

“Torryn hit my heart from the moment I heard about his battle. To see him continue to show up for his education and for his teammates, that is the definition of courage. He is an inspiration to every one of us at Valley College.”

— Dr. Gil Contreras, President, San Bernardino Valley College

“Torryn is the kind of young man and player that isn't going to let a diagnosis get in his way or define who he is. He shows up despite everything else he is battling; no excuses - no pity - he shows up as a football player and that's all you would ever know about him if you didn't already know his story.”

— Rick Pontious, Assistant Coach, San Bernardino Valley College

What’s next

Torryn Pinkard is hoping to receive medical clearance to play football for San Bernardino Valley College in the fall of 2023, pending the completion of his chemotherapy treatments.

The takeaway

Torryn Pinkard's story is a testament to the resilience and determination of young athletes who refuse to let a serious illness define them. His journey highlights the importance of community support and the power of pursuing one's passions, even in the face of adversity.