The Alabama Athletics Department’s 2016-17 Power of Pink slate of events gets underway this Friday, Sept. 30 as the Crimson Tide women’s swimming and diving team takes on Vanderbilt and West Florida at 4 p.m.in the Alabama Aquatic Center.
Friday’s meet marks the first time that swimming and diving has been first up in the Tide’s Power of Pink schedule. Since 2009, Alabama Athletics has developed Power of Pink events for all women’s sports to raise the awareness of breast cancer among students and fans.
“Being a part of Alabama Athletics’ Power of Pink initiative falls in line with one of the cornerstones of our program – working to make a positive impact in the community,” UA head coach Dennis Pursley said. “We’re glad to serve as the opening event this year.”
While the Power of Pink initially began in 2004 under the legendary Sarah Patterson and Alabama gymnastics, the program is now in its eighth season including the full spectrum of the Crimson Tide’s women’s teams – including soccer, volleyball, cross country, basketball, tennis, rowing, softball, swimming and diving and track and field – with events throughout the academic year.
“As a team, we really love the Power of Pink because it’s something we can do to give back to the community,” Alabama swimming and diving captain Mia Nonnenberg said. “Whether we have had a family member or loved one with breast cancer or, any other cancer for that matter, it’s a great opportunity to show we really support this cause. I think that brings us closer to each other and the community at large.”
Swimming and diving’s Power of Pink event, which includes free pink t-shirts and shakers as well as pizza, takes place on the eve of October, which is Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Alabama Power of Pink dates in October include soccer (Oct. 13), cross country (Oct. 14) and volleyball (Oct. 16).
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Courtesy of Alabama Athletics.