Bethany College will participate in the ninth Coaches vs. Cancer "Suits and Sneakers" Challenge during the men's and women's basketball games on January 28 when Bethany hosts Friends University. The women's game starts at 5 p.m. with the men's game to follow.

Nearly 4,000 head and assistant basketball coaches across the U.S. are expected to swap their loafers for sneakers during the Challenge weekend to bring awareness to the American Cancer Society. The Bethany Athletic Association (BAA) will collect donations for the organization during the games and host a reception at halftime of the men's game.

Cancer remains a major health concern and everyone can take daily steps to reduce their risk of the disease. Head Men's Basketball Coach Clair Oleen says, "The Coaches vs. Cancer initiative is a very worthy undertaking in college basketball and we are pleased to be able to participate and contribute with donations at our home basketball game on January 28. All funds we raise will be returned to our local American Cancer Society Chapter."

Head Women's Basketball Coach Jim Campion adds, "The Coaches vs. Cancer Suits and Sneakers weekend is a great opportunity for Bethany College athletics, students, fans and the community to participate in the fight against cancer so that someday we can all be cancer free. So come out and support the Swedes and the American Cancer Society."

At least half of all new cancer cases can be either prevented or detected earlier by screening.  According to the most recent Cancer Facts & Figures, in 2011 an estimated 171,600 preventable cancer deaths were caused by tobacco use, and scientific evidence suggests about a third of the more than 570,000 cancer deaths that occurred last year were related to overweight, obesity, physical inactivity and poor nutrition.  Overweight and obesity are associated with increased risk for developing a number of cancers, including certain breast, colon, endometrium, kidney and pancreatic cancers.

"We are excited that basketball coaches nationwide are joining in the fight against this deadly disease," said Cynthia M. LeBlanc Ed.D, the volunteer board chair of the American Cancer Society.  "Coaches are truly influential celebrities within their communities; they can reach fans and share important information about reducing the risk of cancer by encouraging healthy lifestyle choices."

Since 1993 the initiative has raised more than $75 million dollars to fund groundbreaking research, provide up-to-date cancer literacy, advocate for public health policies and deliver services to improve the quality of life for patients and their families.It's never too late to get involved. Check out coachesvscancer.org to learn more about other events.

Coaches vs. Cancer is a nationwide collaboration between the American Cancer Society and the National Association of Basketball Coaches (NABC) that empowers basketball coaches, their teams, and local communities to make a difference in the fight against cancer. Through this program, coaches host or participate in a variety of activities and involve their community to help battle the disease. From formal galas to halftime shoot-outs, there are many opportunities for coaches to increase cancer awareness, promote healthy living, and raise money to help save lives and create a world with less cancer and more birthdays.