Team Craig Lacrosse Carries Forward a Legacy of Strength, Connection, and Hope

Team Craig chose the Neuroendocrine Cancer Foundation (NCF) to support its work on behalf of patients and families affected by neuroendocrine cancer.

Team Craig is named in honor of Craig Adams, who lost his battle with a form of neuroendocrine cancer in 2015. His sons, Ben and John Adams, promised to honor his legacy and give back to the community that helped give their family eight extra years with him. What began as a tribute to their father has grown into a powerful tradition: each year, a lacrosse team made up of friends and teammates from across the country competes in the Vail Lacrosse Shootout, united by Craig’s legacy and a shared passion for the game.

Team Craig has quickly become one of the top competitors in the tournament, finishing third in 2024 and winning the tournament championship in 2025. In 2026, the team returned to compete again with a renewed mission to raise awareness and funds for families affected by neuroendocrine cancer.

This year, Team Craig took that mission one step further by dedicating its efforts to supporting NCF’s work to expand awareness, education, and patient resources for those impacted by this complex and uncommon disease. The effort included a casual community gathering at Ratio Beerworks - OVERLAND in Denver, where supporters came together for live music, refreshments, conversation, and community in support of NCF.

Neuroendocrine cancer can be difficult to diagnose and treat, and many patients experience years of misdiagnosis or undiagnosed symptoms. NCF works to change that by providing education and resources for patients and caregivers, increasing awareness and understanding of neuroendocrine cancers, connecting patients to experts and information about treatment options and clinical trials, and supporting a community for people navigating diagnosis and care.

As Heather Davis, NCF’s Director of Community Engagement, reflected, navigating a difficult cancer can feel a lot like the unpredictable path of a loose ground ball in lacrosse. You never know exactly which way it will bounce, and the next challenge can come quickly. For many people living with neuroendocrine cancer, that uncertainty is part of daily life. There is often a constant need to adapt, make decisions, overcome obstacles, and prepare for what comes next.

In lacrosse, one of the most important skills is cradling the ball: keeping it secure in the pocket of the stick while running, dodging defenders, preparing to pass, or taking a shot. That image feels especially meaningful for the neuroendocrine cancer community. Living with an uncommon cancer requires strategy, skill, focus, and agility. It requires a team that can help protect, guide, and support patients and families as they move through each stage of care.

That is why NCF is so grateful to Team Craig, the Adams family, Chase Konkel, and everyone who helped bring this effort to life. Their generosity and commitment are helping NCF “cradle” the neuroendocrine cancer community by supporting those living with this uncommon cancer and helping connect more people to the resources and expertise they need.

Although Team Craig did not take home the championship this year, their presence on the field represented something far greater than a final score. They played with purpose, honoring Craig’s memory and continuing a legacy rooted in teamwork, resilience, and care for others.

NCF believes it takes a strong team to face cancer and to live well despite it. Team Craig is helping make that possible so that no one has to face neuroendocrine cancer alone.

A special shoutout to Bodango for bringing the music and positive energy to the event and helping make the gathering even more memorable.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to Ben and John Adams, Chase Konkel, the Adams family, donors, supporters, and Team Craig Lacrosse. Your commitment to this community is deeply meaningful, and your support will help NCF continue providing education, connection, and hope to patients and families affected by neuroendocrine cancer.