Every fall, the soccer fields at Horace Greeley High School transform into something greater than a sports venue—they become a place of remembrance, unity, and purpose. The annual Casey Taub 22:22 Memorial Soccer Jamboree is more than a game. It’s a heartfelt tribute to a teammate, friend, and community member whose impact continues to be felt across generations of Greeley athletes.
A Legacy That Lives On
Casey Taub, a standout student-athlete and beloved member of the Greeley soccer community, passed away in 2017 after a courageous battle with brain cancer. He was just 16 years old. In the years since, Casey’s memory has remained a source of inspiration through the #TaubStrong movement, a grassroots campaign dedicated to honoring his life while supporting pediatric brain cancer research through the Matthew Larson Foundation (IronMatt).
The annual Jamboree—named for Casey’s jersey number 22 and marked by a symbolic 22:22 on the scoreboard—brings together not just teams, but a town. Players, coaches, families, and fans gather to celebrate the spirit of teamwork and resilience that defined Casey’s short but powerful life.
“The Casey Taub 22:22 Memorial Soccer Jamboree is an annual soccer tournament in memory of Casey Taub, a Greeley soccer player who tragically died of brain cancer in 2017. Casey loved soccer and was heavily involved in the Greeley Soccer community. And the Jamboree, alongside other traditions such as wearing CT22 on our practice shirts, is a way of keeping his memory alive while also raising money for pediatric brain cancer. I think it’s a day that shows the family and community that we try to build around the team every year. It’s amazing seeing the town come out in support of such a good cause, and the boys understand that the Jamboree is about more than soccer. It’s one of our most important traditions, and one that I hope continues for years to come.”
– Soccer Captain Max Kolev
Two Teams, One Mission
While the boys’ varsity team began the tradition, the Greeley Girls Soccer Team has joined in full force, embracing the mission of remembrance and philanthropy with equal passion. Both teams wear CT22 insignias, rally under the #TaubStrong banner, and channel their competitive drive into something deeply meaningful. This dual-team commitment underscores the strong sense of unity and shared purpose within the Greeley athletic community.
Whether it’s a fierce goal on the pitch or a moment of silence before the whistle blows, each detail of the event echoes a message: Casey is remembered, and his story continues to make a difference.
A Community That Shows Up
At the heart of this tradition is the Chappaqua community itself. Parents, students, local businesses, and alumni show up year after year—not only to watch the matches but to give back. Through raffles, donations, and awareness efforts, the Jamboree raises critical funds for pediatric brain cancer research while empowering young athletes to play with heart and purpose.
From decorated tables and blue-and-orange balloons to team huddles and shared hugs, the atmosphere at the 22:22 Memorial Game is electric—and emotional. It’s a reminder that sports, at their best, reflect the values of perseverance, compassion, and solidarity.
Keeping the Flame Alive
Each new class of Greeley soccer players takes on the responsibility of carrying this torch forward. The Jamboree, the CT22 shirts, and the pre-game ceremonies aren’t just rituals—they’re acts of remembrance. And through these acts, Casey’s legacy continues to impact lives, raise awareness, and offer hope to families affected by pediatric brain cancer.
As the Greeley Girls and Boys soccer teams walk onto the field each year, they do so with more than skill and strategy. They carry with them the spirit of a teammate who taught them what it means to be strong—not just in competition, but in character.
#TaubStrong Forever
To support the cause or learn more about Casey’s story, visit IronMatt.org. Together, we can ensure that Casey’s memory—and the impact of this incredible community tradition—continues to thrive.
Together, we are stronger than childhood cancer!
Donate Now | Learn More | Share an IronKid Story]
