Nevada Governor Throws First Pitch at UNLV Softball's Cancer Fundraiser

Lombardo participates in ceremonial first pitch with cancer survivors at annual event

Apr. 13, 2026 at 10:05pm

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An abstract, expressionist painting in vibrant neon colors depicting the energy and emotion of a softball game, with the ceremonial first pitch being the central focus. The players' faces and uniforms are dissolved into unrecognizable splatters of paint, but the overall scene conveys a sense of excitement and camaraderie.Governor Lombardo's ceremonial first pitch at UNLV's annual Strike Out Cancer Weekend highlights the community's shared commitment to supporting cancer survivors and advancing research.Las Vegas Today

Nevada Governor Joe Lombardo attended the UNLV women's softball game on Saturday as part of the Rebels' annual Strike Out Cancer Weekend. During the pregame ceremony, Lombardo handed the ceremonial first pitch ball to Michael and Jennifer Fox, who are both cancer survivors and the parents of UNLV softball head coach Kristie Fox.

Why it matters

The Strike Out Cancer Weekend is an important annual event for the UNLV softball program to raise awareness and honor those impacted by cancer. Governor Lombardo's participation helps bring greater attention to the cause and shows his support for the local community.

The details

Before the game, Lombardo participated in the pregame first pitch ceremony, handing the ball to Michael and Jennifer Fox. Both Michael and Jennifer are cancer survivors, and they are the parents of UNLV softball head coach Kristie Fox.

  • The event took place on Saturday, April 12, 2026.

The players

Joe Lombardo

The Governor of Nevada.

Michael Fox

A cancer survivor who participated in the ceremonial first pitch.

Jennifer Fox

A cancer survivor who participated in the ceremonial first pitch with her husband Michael.

Kristie Fox

The head coach of the UNLV softball team and the daughter of Michael and Jennifer Fox.

UNLV Softball

The women's softball team at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas that hosted the Strike Out Cancer Weekend event.

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What they’re saying

“The Strike Out Cancer Weekend is an important annual event for the UNLV softball program to raise awareness and honor those impacted by cancer.”

— Joe Lombardo, Governor of Nevada

The takeaway

Governor Lombardo's participation in the ceremonial first pitch at UNLV's Strike Out Cancer Weekend highlights the importance of community support and awareness for those affected by cancer. The event provides a meaningful platform for honoring survivors and raising funds for cancer research and support.