• Roster
• |
• Schedule/Results
• |
• Stats
• |
• News
• |
• Archives

Sept. 8, 2010

At The University of Texas, student-athletes learn every day about community, and, more importantly, the significance of giving back to it. The Longhorns also have leaders who embody this ideal.

Gail Goestenkors and Jody Conradt will participate in the third annual 4Kay Golf Classic on Monday, Sept. 13 at Barton Creek Resort and Spa. Named in honor of the late Kay Yow, former N.C. State women's basketball coach, the tournament benefits the Kay Yow/Women's Basketball Coaches Association (WBCA) Cancer Fund.

Yow, a past president and founding member of the WBCA, was first diagnosed with breast cancer in 1987, and battled the disease until her passing in 2009. In 36 seasons as a head coach, Yow was one of only six coaches to achieve 700 career victories.

"Kay represented all that is good with women's basketball," Goestenkors said. "She lived and coached with tremendous integrity and passion. She was always giving of herself to others, and this is our opportunity to help make one of her dreams come true."

Yow was grateful for the experimental treatments that she felt helped prolong her life. Among her final wishes were for future generations to have access to such treatment and care.

The Yow/WBCA Cancer Fund exists to help facilitate Yow's desire, and this golf tournament serves as a major fundraising mechanism. Esteemed coaches from across the country and supporters of the game will convene on the golf course in support of this cause.

"Cancer is something that touches all of us," Conradt said. "In some way, it will reach every one of us, and so it is our responsibility to do something about it. It's special that so many people can come together to preserve Kay's memory and also help the future."

Although Goestenkors isn't a golfer, she appreciates the experience. Conradt's game, however, has ripened with retirement. Last year, she played with one of the top-finishing foursomes.

"Coaches and fans become united in our efforts to find a cure for cancer," Goestenkors said. "That's why we're so honored and proud to have this tournament here in Austin."