KANSAS CITY, Mo. – Suits And Sneakers Week, the signature annual advocacy and awareness initiative of the American Cancer Society and NABC’s Coaches vs. Cancer program, begins today and runs through February 2. The nationwide campaign will unite coaches across all levels of basketball to advance the American Cancer Society’s vision to end cancer as we know it, for everyone.
Throughout the week, coaches will wear suits along with their most eye-catching sneakers on the sidelines as a visible reminder of their commitment to advancing the fight against cancer. Programs participating in Suits And Sneakers Week will also deliver important messaging about the life-saving significance of regular cancer screening, along with other impactful visuals such as personal tributes on “I Suit Up For…” signs.
Coaches vs. Cancer was launched in 1993 by former Missouri coach Norm Stewart. In its 30-plus years of operation, Coaches vs. Cancer has raised over $179 million to support the efforts of the American Cancer Society, including screening, research, and patient support programs such as Hope Lodge and Road to Recovery.
“For over 30 years, the Coaches vs. Cancer program has showcased the impact coaches can make when they collectively unite behind a common cause,” said NABC Executive Director Craig Robinson. “Suits And Sneakers Week is about more than basketball, and our coaches are eager to continue using their influential platforms to further the American Cancer Society’s fight against this disease that impacts us all.”
“Screening and access to treatment play a critical role in improving cancer outcomes,” said Dr. Wayne A. I. Frederick, interim chief executive officer at the American Cancer Society and the American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network (ACS CAN). “College basketball coaches across the country bringing more visibility to this message during Suits And Sneakers week helps expand our reach and fund services that provide easier access to the lifesaving treatment patients need.”
Cancer screening is safe, effective, and should be a regular part of everyone’s life. With one-in-two men and one-in-three women facing a cancer diagnosis in their lifetime, regular cancer screening is more important than ever. To learn more about the American Cancer Society, the Coaches vs. Cancer program, and cancer screening options, visit coaches.cancer.org.
