4Kay Events-In-A-Box Kickoff Event

By Julia M. Coleman: SPM FL Writer
Posted Tuesday, April 8, 2008

TAMPA, Fla. – In a ceremony both emotionally draining and spiritually uplifting, the 4Kay Events-in-a-Box on Monday afternoon, April 7th at the Tampa Marriott Waterside unveiled new branding as well as opportunities for involvement in the fight against cancer.

University of North Carolina Coach Kay Yow spoke at various times throughout the presentation, but there were also important contributions from emcee and former UNC player Debbie Antonelli, who was publicly acknowledged by Coach Yow and Women's Basketball Coaches Association (WBCA) President Beth Bass, as the spearhead behind this effort.

Previously marketed as the “Think Pink” initiative, the WBCA has re-branded its drive to be more in keeping with a sports theme. Moving forward, it will be known as the Pink Zone. The WBCA wants to enlist the support of the “Nation of Coaches,” as Coach Yow likes to call her colleagues, in the fight to both prevent and find a cure for cancer.

NCAA Pink Zone events for 2009 will be during the week of February 13 – 22. The WBCA has pledged to provide collateral media to teams that wish to participate. Monday’s 4Kay Events-in-a-Box provided moving tributes, survivor’s stories, and the opportunity for all participants to sign a pledge card signifying a personal commitment to the fight.

In keeping with the spirit Coach Yow has personified throughout her personal battle against cancer, she again acknowledged those in the room who have rallied to the cause.

“I am blessed to surrounded by such a powerful group of individuals,” she said.

Those in the room felt equally blessed to be in the presence of such an irrepressible fighter.