Raleigh, NC – The Illinois State women's basketball program was recognized as a Play4Kay National Award Winner for the fourth year in a row, announced by the Kay Yow Cancer Fund Friday.   

For only the fourth time in Play4Kay's history, and for the fourth year in a row, Illinois State has won the Division I BCS and Non-BCS national awards. The Redbirds have now been named a Play4Kay divisional winner for the tenth consecutive year.   

"Having played for Coach Yow and been a part of her staff in the final years of her life, I know how much the Play4Kay campaigns mean to so many in a broad sense. Our department, University, community, fundraising captains and sponsors continue to amaze me with their support. As Play4Kay becomes bigger each year, I know we are all a part of carrying out Coach Yow's vision, and for that, I am grateful."  

Illinois State raised $40,000 for the Kay Yow Cancer Fund at its annual Play4Kay game earlier this season on Feb. 2. The Redbirds have fundraised over $350,000 for the Kay Yow Cancer Fund and the fight against all women's cancers in their 15 years hosting a Play4Kay game.  

"We are so grateful that our efforts match Coach Yow's vision by uniting coaches and a community, advancing cancer research and lifting up survivors," said Chief Operating Officer/SWA Leanna Bordner. "We have been successful in raising funds during our Play4Kay events in large part due to the support of our university and athletics department leadership, campus and community volunteers who serve as captains and are passionate about this fundraising cause and local sponsors who make our annual Play4Kay game a priority."  

The Kay Yow Cancer Fund was officially founded on Dec. 3, 2007, from the vision of the organization's namesake, Kay Yow, former NC State head women's basketball coach. Coach Yow was first diagnosed with breast cancer in 1987 before succumbing to the disease on Jan. 24, 2009. The Kay Yow Cancer Fund is a 501(c)(3) charitable organization committed to being a part of finding an answer in the fight against ALL cancers affecting women through raising money for scientific research, providing access to quality cancer healthcare for underserved women, and unifying people for a common cause. For more information on the Kay Yow Cancer Fund, or to donate, please visit KayYow.com. 

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