Coaches vs. Cancer is a program founded by the American Cancer Society and the National Association of Basketball Coaches that empowers basketball coaches and their teams and communities to join the fight against cancer by participating in a variety of national and local events. Since 1993, coaches participating in the program have raised more than $30 million to help ACS fund research, provide up-to-date cancer information and education, advocate for public health policies that benefit the community, and provide services that improve the quality of life for patients and their families.

"Coaches vs. Cancer is a fun program that harnesses the energy and excitement of college basketball and the spirited leadership of great coaches like Coach Izzo to help the American Cancer Society fulfill its vital mission," stated Joe Mahoney, chairman, American Cancer Society, Great Lakes Division. "We couldn't be more proud and excited to partner with Tom and Lupe Izzo and their quest to make a difference in the fight against cancer and within their community."

Participating coaches promote the program nationally through events such as the national Coaches vs. Cancer Suits & Sneakers Awareness Weekend, which will take place February 1-3, 2008. During this weekend, coaches and coaching staff will sport sneakers with their usual game attire during weekend games to show support for this unifying program within the college basketball community

Along with these national events, coaches host community events to raise awareness as well as funds. The Izzos started by issuing a corporate challenge to businesses throughout the state to support this effort by participating in a state-wide "Dress Down Day" the week of January 28 – February 1, which coincides with the Suits & Sneakers weekend. Participating companies will encourage their employees to dress casually for a donation within their place of business. Through this challenge, Auto Owners Insurance Company signed up to wear sneakers at their 75 offices throughout 25 states.

"As a coach, I have always purposely scheduled tough opponents to play against; however, from a personal standpoint, I imagine cancer to be the toughest opponent one could ever face. Lupe and I have decided to devote ourselves to this battle by partnering with the American Cancer Society," Coach Izzo said. "This effort will allow all of us to be on the same team, battling the same opponent and accomplishing a shared goal."

For more information about Coaches vs. Cancer, visit www.cancer.org or call 1-800-ACS-2345.

Pictured: ACS Chairman Joe Mahoney, Coach Tom Izzo, Lupe Izzo, and Michigan Economic Development Corporation CEO Jim Epolito show off their sneakers in support of Coaches vs. Cancer.