Garden City, N.Y. - Collegiate powerhouses spanning from across the continental United States will all make their way to Long Island this weekend for the inaugural DezyStrong Classic.

While Adelphi will welcome in a bevy of fellow NTCA Top 25 nationally-ranked programs for a three-day-long tournament at Coram Country Lanes, the cause will be for more than just crowning a champion.

The tournament was named in honor of Matthew "Dezy" DiStefano -- a long-time friend and co-worker of Dennis Kearney's at Sachem North High School -- who was diagnosed with Stage 4 kidney cancer in February 2018.

Until his passing in January 2020, DiStefano maintained a positive mindset and became proactive in helping others change their way of mentally approaching the disease, thus starting the DezyStrong Foundation.

The DezyStrong Foundation, which was founded by DiStefano in 2019, was established to provide the opportunity for individuals with cancer to have access to experiences that directly affect a positive mental well-being.

Before his death, Kearney and DiStefano collaborated on an event that would involve the foundation and bowling. Nearly two years later and with Dezy watching on in spirit, that idea has become a reality.

A first ball will be thrown Friday to celebrate the start of the tournament, and a representative of the DezyStrong Foundation will be on hand during the weekend to address the teams and fans in attendance.

"We're very humble here at Adelphi to be hosting this tournament and raise awareness for people who have cancer," said Kearney. "We want to get them the opportunities and help that they may need. It is something here at Adelphi that we are looking to be a part of."

Proceeds are set to benefit DezyStrong and their mission of supporting those affected by helping them keep a healthy and strong mental outlook during their fight. Raffles and apparel will be sold across the duration of the tournament. Donations will also be welcome.