Ridgewood Strong: RHS Basketball Teams Rally for 4th Grader Ryan Konzelman

A True Role Model: Ridge Elementary’s Ryan Konzelman Honored at RHS “Coaches vs. Cancer” Event

photos courtesy of Ridgewood Schools

Ridgewood NJ, The Ridgewood community showed its true colors this weekend, turning out in force at Ridgewood High School to support one of its youngest and bravest residents.

On Sunday, January 18, 2026, the RHS gymnasium hosted a series of “Coaches vs. Cancer/Healing Through Sports” games dedicated to Ryan Konzelman, a fourth-grade student at Ridge Elementary School who was diagnosed with cancer this past summer. The event was more than just a triple-header of basketball; it was a powerful display of community solidarity.

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A Hero’s Journey: Ryan Konzelman’s Resilience

Despite facing a challenging diagnosis, Ryan has become an inspiration to both his peers and local leaders. District spokeswoman Christine Corliss highlighted Ryan’s incredible spirit during his treatment.

“Throughout his treatment, he has shown remarkable strength, resilience, and positivity,” Corliss shared. “Ryan has persevered through the school year and has continued to attend school, approach his assignments with determination, and enjoy time with friends. He has always been a kind friend, a dedicated student, and a true role model.”

Healing Through Sports: The Sunday Triple-Header

The fundraiser featured three exciting basketball match-ups involving both the boys’ and girls’ teams. While the games were free to attend, the Ridgewood community stepped up to the plate (and the hoop) to raise significant funds.

How the Community Contributed:

• Concessions & Donations: 100% of the proceeds from food sales and direct donations were collected at the door.

• The Mission: All funds raised from the event are being donated to Memorial Sloan Kettering Kids (MSK Kids) in Ryan’s name, supporting pediatric cancer research and treatment.

• High School Leadership: RHS student-athletes led the charge, organizing the events to show Ryan that the “Maroon” family has his back.

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How You Can Still Help

If you missed the games at 627 East Ridgewood Ave, you can still support the cause. Contributions in Ryan’s honor can be made directly to MSK Kids, an organization at the forefront of treating pediatric cancers and providing life-saving care to children like Ryan.

Ridgewood continues to prove that when one member of the family faces a journey like this, no one walks alone.

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