Lancer basketball teams up to host cancer awareness event

PCC’s women and men’s basketball games were held during a special Coaches vs. Cancer event Friday night.

“The Coaches vs. Cancer program empowers their teams and communities to join the fight against cancer by participating in awareness efforts, advocacy programs, and fundraising activities to help people with cancer today and to find the cures to end the disease tomorrow.” PCC’s website said of the annual event.

PCC hosted LA Trade-Tech for a fun-filled night where fans were encouraged to wear pink, while players sported special pink and white jerseys. The Hutto-Patterson Gymnasium was decorated with pink and white balloons, and t-shirts were on sale with all proceeds being donated to help the fight against cancer.

Tony Barbone, PCC’s Athletic Director, was beaming with pride over the events turnout, and was pleased to see people from past Coaches vs. Cancer events in attendance.

“You see people wearing last year’s t-shirts. It creates a certain energy,” said Barbone of the crowd.

Coaches vs. Cancer is a night about helping others. Barbone summed up the evenings purpose stating, “You’re going to be evaluated on what you do for others, that’s what tonight is all about.”

Representatives from the American Cancer Society (ACS) were also in attendance to provide information and resources, including Senior Market Manager Viki Goto.

“One of the biggest pushes we have, especially among college students, is prevention,” said Goto of ACS’s mission.

Goto also added, “We’re always looking for volunteers,” and “we have a great program for ambassadors.”

Men’s basketball coach Michael Swanegan said of the night, “It’s to honor breast cancer survivors and people with breast cancer who didn’t survive.”

“I’m happy to do this for one of the leading cancers in the world,” said Swanegan.

The event also included guest speaker Cynthia Vant Hul, a 14-year cancer survivor herself.

She thanked all those in attendance.

“Huge thanks to the Lancers and coaches for their commitment to our mission,” she said. “I enjoy coming here every year. It’s a pleasure and an honor.”

For more information and resources call the ACS at 1-800-227-2345.