Notre Dame’s Coaches vs. Cancer Golf Classic tops $5 million raised in fight against cancer

NOTRE DAME, Ind. -- Golfers, Notre Dame men’s basketball players, local businesses and community supporters gathered Monday at Warren Golf Course for the annual Coaches vs. Cancer Golf Classic, closing out a two-day “Celebration of Hope” that has raised more than $5 million for the American Cancer Society over the past 24 years.

While many participants competed for birdies, the real goal was supporting cancer research and patient services.

The fundraiser began Sunday evening with the “Night of the Stars” gala before shifting to the golf course Monday, where golfers had the opportunity to play alongside members of the Notre Dame men’s basketball program.

Head coach Micah Shrewsberry was unable to participate in the tournament because he continues recovering from a torn Achilles.

“I will not be playing today, and I do have a handicap, but I have a torn Achilles I’m still trying to rehab,” Shrewsberry said.

Instead of swinging clubs, Shrewsberry spent the afternoon greeting golfers, thanking sponsors and watching his players connect with supporters throughout the course.

For the Notre Dame coach, the event carries a deeply personal meaning. His mother is a breast cancer survivor, and his mother-in-law lost her battle with cancer — experiences that continue to fuel his commitment to the fundraiser.

“Each year it’s kind of mind-blowing to see how special it is,” Shrewsberry said. “That event last night and the golf outing today, it’s just so much support from this entire community, and a lot of work goes into it.”

Money raised through Coaches vs. Cancer helps fund the American Cancer Society’s cancer research, patient support programs, transportation assistance and lodging for patients traveling to receive treatment.

According to the American Cancer Society, the national Coaches vs. Cancer initiative has raised more than $179 million since its launch in 1993. Notre Dame’s event has grown into one of the organization’s five largest fundraisers nationwide.

Jessica McCrea, senior development manager for the American Cancer Society, said organizers hope participants leave knowing their day on the course has a lasting impact.

“We want our players to leave today, our supporters, everyone to have the best day,” McCrea said. “We have wonderful weather, wonderful vendors out on the course serving good food and drinks and other things, so we want people to have a good time and know that they are making a difference.”

From longtime sponsors to first-time golfers, the event once again demonstrated the strength of the Michiana community’s support for families affected by cancer.