This initiative leverages the personal experiences, community leadership, and professional excellence of coaches nationwide to increase cancer awareness and promote healthy living through year-round awareness efforts, fundraising activities, and advocacy programs. Since 1993, coaches have raised over $135 million for the American Cancer Society.
Norm Stewart, former head coach of the University of Missouri’s men’s basketball program, cancer survivor, and member of the National Association of Basketball Coaches, provided the vision and inspiration for the Coaches vs. Cancer concept.
He started the program by challenging fans to pledge a dollar amount for every three-point shot made by his team during the season. The concept evolved into a nationwide effort uniting coaches, fans, players, and communities across the country to fight cancer.
I had the wonderful experience of having won more than 700 games. I’d trade every one of those wins if we could finish this fight against cancer.
NORM STEWART
FORMER HEAD COACH OF THE UNIVERSITY OF MISSOURI, COACHES VS. CANCER FOUNDER
Each season, college and high school basketball coaches across the nation wear sneakers with their suits during dedicated games to raise awareness and funds, while encouraging people to educate themselves about cancer prevention. The 2021 Suits and Sneakers Week is set for January 25th-31st.
Our vision for the 2020-2021 season is to make a nationwide impact on the fight against childhood cancer. This season, Coaches vs. Cancer Suits And Sneakers fundraisers will support childhood cancer awareness through our Gold Together campaign which raises funds to support childhood cancer research, services and awareness, and cancer prevention efforts targeting children.*
*If your event has historically supported another American Cancer Society program, you may continue to do so. If you prefer to support the full mission of the American Cancer Society, you may opt out of the restriction to childhood cancer.