As I watched the UNC/ Maryland women’s basketball game recently, I was reminded of my coach and all women’s coaches who fight cancer. Each team wore some form of pink: jersey (UNC) and shooting shirt (Maryland).
My coach died just a few years ago from cancer,and more recently we have learned of the death of Kay Yow, coach of NC State Women’s Basketball. There are so many women and people who suffer from this disease that awareness is more important now than ever. The WBCA formulated an initiative called “Think Pink”, now called “WBCA Pink Zone,” to create awareness and raise funds for cancer research . I, as a former women’s basketball player, am proud to have participated in this initiative.
According to the WBCA, in 2008 “over 1,200 teams and over $930,000 was raised for breast cancer awareness and research”( http://www.wbca.org/pinkzone.asp). This is an issue that hits close to home for me but more importantly, this is an issue affecting so many of our oaches. I urge student-athletes to ask your administration, if you do not already do some form of cancer research and awareness fundraiser, to participate in “WBCA Pink Zone.” The more awareness and research we can create the better chance we have to finding a cure for this disease.
Kay Yow devoted a large part of her life to breast cancer awareness after being diagnosed in 1987. Kay Yow became an inspiration to all those around her even those who weren’t blessed to know her personally. Her continuous effort to fight her disease inspired people to always try their best at everything and not give up. She was a mentor, and al living example of how to fight to the end.
Please continue to be a part of a great cause. Think Pink!!!!
Shanay Freeman
Fairleigh Dickinson University
Northeast Conference
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