WASHINGTON, D.C. – Yesterday, U.S. Rep. Kathy Castor (FL-14) played in the friendly rivalry softball game between the women of Congress and women of the D.C. press corps at the 16th Annual Congressional Women’s Softball Game (CWSG). Since 2009, the CWSG has supported the Young Survival Coalition by raising awareness of breast cancer in young women and honoring current fighters and survivors of cancer.

This year, Rep. Castor stepped up to the plate for her District Advisor Shahra Lambert, a breast cancer survivor and dedicated advocate for residents across the Tampa Bay area. As District Advisor, Lambert uses her expertise and deep understanding of the region to meaningfully engage with constituents and stakeholders across the community. Lambert’s impressive career includes fifteen years in leadership roles for former U.S. Senator Bill Nelson, during which time she worked on several initiatives to promote equity and community engagement. After Nelson was confirmed to lead NASA, Lambert joined the Administrator’s team as Senior Advisor. Her extensive experience with federal agencies, grassroots advocacy and strategic planning has been instrumental in advancing the district's priorities and fostering stronger connections within the community.

Photos of the game are available here.

“I’m humbled and honored that Congresswoman Castor is not only playing in my honor but playing for all those survivors and their loved ones’ cancer journey,” said Lambert. “It takes a village, and I’m glad to be a part of and root for Team Castor and the Congressional Women’s Softball.”

“The Congressional Women’s Softball Game brings people together for a friendly rivalry game that helps bring people of all sides together to support initiatives raising awareness of breast cancer and underscoring the importance of young women knowing their risks and getting their screenings,” said Rep. Castor. “I was honored to play for my District Advisor, Shahra Lambert, whose exceptional experience and dedication to serving Florida families and small businesses are vital to my ability to connect with constituents and address their needs effectively. Shahra has been an asset in fighting to secure emergency federal support for my neighbors recovering from last year’s devastating hurricanes.”

An estimated 316,950 women will be diagnosed with breast cancer in 2025, and an estimated 43,700 women will die from the disease, according to the American Cancer Society. Rep. Castor has been a leader in Congress in advancing legislation to fight cancer through increased preventative care, expanded access to cancer screenings, coverage for timely cancer treatment and investments in cancer research.

“While I am thrilled to receive the Rep. Joanne Emerson Most Valuable Player Award this year as the Member Team’s pitcher, all of the women who have been diagnosed with breast cancer and have fought through the diagnosis are the true winners in my book,” said Rep. Castor.