The CAT15 Crown of Courage

The Heart Behind the CAT15: Honoring Jessica Bernardo and the Fight Against Cancer

Every summer, the CAT Volleyball Tournament brings our NOVUS family and community together for more than just volleyball—it’s a platform to rise up for causes that matter.

This year, CAT15 is personal.

We’re dedicating this tournament to our cousin Jessica Bernardo, a radiant light in our family and this year’s “Crown of Courage” recipient—a new honor that spotlights a courageous individual in the NOVUS community who inspires us to rise above.

At just 35, Jessica is in the midst of a fierce battle with breast cancer. A Clifton Park native, she’s pursued her passions across Nashville, Atlanta, and now North Carolina, building a life grounded in faith, music, and purpose. Her strength is unwavering—despite enduring past brain surgeries and now the financial and emotional weight of cancer treatment in California, where medical costs could reach over $100,000.

Jessica’s mother, our Aunt Karis, was one of our honorees at CAT10. Her joyful spirit and hope-filled voice inspired us to start giving back through the tournament. Today, we carry that torch for Jessica.

Through the launch of our upcoming Claim Your Crown Foundation, we are raising funds to support:

• Jessica’s fight against breast cancer

• The 1:12 Project – our NOVUS mission trip initiative running sports camps with underprivileged communities in the Dominican Republic

• The American Cancer Society

All proceeds will be collected via our GoFundMe page. If you’d like your donation to go directly to Jessica, simply add “Jessica Bernardo” in the memo.

It’s time to rise together and play with purpose. For Jessica, and for all those fighting their own battles every day. Claim Your Crown.