Kay Yow, the prominent former North Carolina State University women’s basketball coach who died in 2009 after a 22-year battle with breast cancer, motivated everyone to keep fighting. On Saturday afternoon at Duggins Soccer Stadium, her inspirational words rung true.
“When life kicks you, let it kick you forward.”
Kay Yow, the prominent former North Carolina State University women’s basketball coach who died in 2009 after a 22-year battle with breast cancer, motivated everyone to keep fighting. On Saturday afternoon at Duggins Soccer Stadium, her inspirational words rung true.
As the Methodist University women’s soccer team went toe-to-toe with Mary Baldwin University, the Monarchs hosted a Play4Kay event with proceeds going towards the Kay Yow Cancer Fund and the Cape Fear Valley Health Foundation.
Not only did the Monarchs snatch a 3-0 victory over the Fighting Squirrels, but head coach Bryan Madej would tell you the match meant a little more knowing who they were playing for.
“As a women’s soccer program, we feel inspired to make a difference for such a good cause. I’ve had many players that have been directly affected by cancer, either with their mothers or other family members, so this was a day for us to recognize the brave individuals who’ve gone through a difficult time and inspire them to keep fighting,” said Madej.
As a nod to breast cancer awareness month, the Monarchs donned pink socks and headbands on the pitch. However, they weren’t the only ones to brave pink as many fans donned their pink gear while cheering on the Monarchs from the stands.
A special moment came at halftime as the University honored two women currently battling breast cancer—Erin Harris and Nicole Hubbard. Both women were embraced by a few members of the MU women’s soccer team, including their own daughters, senior forward Laura Harris and senior defender Tatum Hubbard.
“Normally, I don’t like to be the center of attention, but this Play4Kay game means a lot,” said an emotional Nicole Hubbard.
According to the American Cancer Society, some of the cancers that most often affect women are breast, colorectal, endometrial, lung, cervical, skin, and ovarian cancers. However, the National Breast Cancer Foundation states one-in-eight women in the United States will develop a breast cancer in her lifetime.
If you’re interested in helping the fight against cancer, we encourage you to visit the Kay Yow Cancer Fund or the Cape Fear Valley Health Foundation. Methodist University will also host an additional Play4Kay game when the women’s basketball team takes on Brevard College on February 11, 2023.