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SAN MARCOS, Calif. – Evan Bal, a 19-year-old soccer player at Cal State San Marcos and a Glendora High School alumnus, was recently diagnosed with Stage 3 osteosarcoma in his left knee. Osteosarcoma is the most common form of primary bone cancer.

"Evan is an absolutely outstanding young man in every fashion. If my young sons grow up to be like Evan, I'd be the most proud father in the world," said head coach Ron Pulvers. "He's handling this news in the most positive way imaginable and he's attacking it head on. He's the kind of guy we want our program to be modeled around; I think it's important that we do what we can to support him and his family as they go forward and try and beat this thing."

Evan's friends created a GoFundMe.com fundraiser page in order to raise funds to help his family during treatment. His parents, Frank and Thelma, are independent contractors, so time off work to support Evan's care impacts their earning potential. In 18 days, the page has raised over $26,000 of its $30,000 goal. To donate, click here.

Evan was recently admitted to City of Hope, a leading research and treatment center for cancer in Duarte, Calif. He began the 15-week chemotherapy treatment last week.

"I miss my family in San Marcos, I have made some life long friends down there," said Bal. "There is always someone out there going through something tougher than I am, so it is better not to dwell, but to laugh or joke about it. Sulking is unnecessary!

Athletic and adventurous, Evan played water polo and soccer in high school while maintaining excellent grades. He excels in skateboarding and wakeboarding, and recently took up surfing.

His GoFundMe page describes him: "More important than his athletic prowess, however, is the constant smile, positive attitude, high energy, strong character and instant willingness to help that defines Evan and draw people to him wherever he goes."