April 21, 2009

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. -- The women’s athletics programs at Florida State University joined forces this season to help support a great cause as each team hosted individual “Paint it Pink” games throughout the year.

 

The FSU volleyball, soccer, women’s basketball, women’s tennis and softball teams each held their own game supporting the cause. The proceeds, which totaled $23,845 in support of breast cancer research, were then donated to the Susan G. Komen for the Cure, as well as the WBCA Kay Yow Cancer Fund in honor of the late NC State head women’s basketball coach. 

 

“This season was an overwhelming success for all of the sports,” FSU marketing assistant Drew Longenecker said. “All of our teams sported pink attire, from the jerseys at soccer and softball, the shoe laces and warm-up shirts at volleyball and women’s basketball and even the entire outfit at tennis. It was a total effort from all of the women’s teams and we thank them for all of their help throughout the season.

 

“We look forward to surpassing that number next year as we will continue to help fight the cause.”

 

Various women’s teams at FSU auctioned off their game-worn jerseys, warm-ups and other memorabilia. 

 

Online and raffle auctions were even held at women’s basketball games while the women’s tennis team conducted a bake sale in recognition of the cause. Donations in support of the “Paint it Pink” initiative were also accepted at each sporting event.   

 

The research of breast cancer and its prevention is extremely important as increased funding helps facilitate new advances in the fight against a killer disease.

 

"Twenty years ago a woman diagnosed with breast cancer had a 78 percent survival rate, but today, thanks to the advances of science and technology, education and easier access to mammogram screenings, if the cancer is detected early enough there is now a 98 percent survival rate," said Theresa Martin, Executive Director of the North Florida Affiliate of the Susan G. Komen for the Cure Foundation. "Many of these advances from research to outreach programs are funded by the monies raised by volunteers and the teams participating in this event. For every $100 raised, The Susan G. Komen for the Cure Foundation can fund another mammogram in our area for women that are uninsured or underinsured.

 

“Our goal is to make sure any women in need of a screening has access to one. We can do that thanks to everyone that donates to our organization."

 

The Seminoles received some great national exposure during a “Paint it Pink” game this season when a fantastic play made by the soccer team was aired on Sportscenter’s Top 10 Plays on ESPN.

 

To watch the highlight featuring FSU’s Toni Pressley and Becky Edwards, access the following link to Seminoles.com: http://seminoles.cstv.com/sports/w-soccer/spec-rel/101708aaa.html