The George Mason University Patriots women’s basketball team secured a hard-fought 76-66 victory over the University of Massachusetts during the annual #Play4Kay Pink Game at EagleBank Arena on Sunday, February 16. The event, sponsored for the sixth consecutive year by Sentara Northern Virginia Medical Center (SNVMC), brought together fans, survivors, and medical professionals to raise awareness of women’s cancers and honor those affected by breast cancer.
A Victory Beyond the Scoreboard
With 2,679 fans in attendance, the energy inside EagleBank Arena was electric, as the Patriots not only continued their strong season—now boasting 20+ wins and a second-place standing in the Atlantic 10 Conference—but also played for a cause that extends far beyond basketball.
Before the game, Sentara’s Cancer Network Resource Center hosted a special reception to celebrate breast cancer survivors. Bernadette Soliday, one of the honorees, shared her powerful story of perseverance and support.
“An important thing that I learned through my journey is that there is an army of people behind you to get you through a cancer experience,” said Soliday. “It’s the doctors, the nurses, the nurse navigators, your family, your friends, and community groups that provide supplies and emotional support. I want to say thank you to all of them for standing by us during such a challenging time.”
Supporting Survivors Beyond the Game
Sentara’s Breast Cancer Nurse Navigation Program was critical in Soliday’s journey, guiding diagnosis through recovery. She credited the program for its continued support, even beyond active treatment, as she found solace in joining Sentara’s breast cancer support group.
“It’s a wonderfully diverse and supportive group of women,” Soliday shared. “We’ve all had different diagnoses and treatment paths, but we understand each other and share that support.”
The Sentara Cancer Network Resource Center provides a variety of resources and support for those diagnosed with cancer, their caregivers, and those seeking information about cancer prevention.
“We could not be prouder to be part of the national Play4Kay initiative to raise awareness of cancers affecting women and to honor brave cancer survivors at all points in their journeys,” said Jeff Joyner, president of SNVMC. “Our multidisciplinary team at the Sentara Northern Virginia Comprehensive Breast Center brings together experts and technology to create personalized care plans for each patient.”
The Pink Game is part of the national Play4Kay initiative, named after legendary Hall of Fame Coach Kay Yow. Yow, who battled breast cancer herself, envisioned Play4Kay as a way to unite communities in the fight against cancers affecting women. The initiative continues her legacy by bringing together players, coaches, officials, and fans to support a cause that transcends sports.
Sentara medical experts stress the importance of routine mammograms as one of the most effective methods for early breast cancer detection.
Recent Stories
Summer is in full swing, but Signal Bay Waterpark remains closed as crews work to complete long-overdue upgrades to one of the city’s most beloved attractions.
Manassas Olive Oil Company celebrated a significant milestone on Friday with a ribbon-cutting ceremony to mark its 10th anniversary in Historic Downtown Manassas.
On Monday, July 14, the Manassas City Council is expected to vote on transferring $725,000 from its capital reserves to the city’s Economic Development Authority (EDA) for the purchase of another property behind the Manassas Shopping Center.
Prince William County’s newest commuter garage opened with high hopes — but nearly six months later, it’s mostly sitting empty.
The ArtsFairfax Events Calendar is your destination for all arts and culture activities in Northern Virginia. Find a concert, play, poetry reading, or exhibition in your neighborhood—many events are free and family-friendly!
Are you part of a performing arts group, school, or cultural organization? You can add your events and classes, too. The ArtsFairfax Events Calendar is free and easy to use.
Your attendance at local arts events supports small businesses in our community and the art makers who help make Fairfax and its surrounding region so vibrant. With the ArtsFairfax Events Calendar, you can stay curious and stay local to plan your next arts adventure!
Go Ape, America’s leading aerial adventure park provider, is proud to unveil a revitalized experience across its iconic Zipline & Adventure Parks. This refresh goes beyond physical upgrades; it reflects a renewed mission to foster meaningful connections between people, nature, and self.
“Go Ape has always been about thrilling treetop adventures,” says Chrissy Very, Senior Director of Marketing. “Now, we’re redefining what it means to truly connect: through purpose-driven outdoor experiences that inspire courage, reflection, and joy.”
As access to public outdoor spaces becomes more limited, Go Ape steps in to bridge the gap with immersive, inclusive, and wellness-focused adventures for individuals, families, and groups.
Christmas in July
Volunteer Prince William will be holding a fun-filled Christmas in July event at Heritage Brewing Co on July 26th from 12pm until 6pm with all proceeds going to support the 2025 Untrim-A-Tree and Senior Basket Program. Untrim-A-Tree and Senior Basket
Your Weight Matters National Convention
Hosted by the Obesity Action Coalition (OAC) since 2012, this highly-anticipated gathering is the nation’s leading gathering focused on empowering individuals with science-based education, support and practical tools for managing weight and improving health.
This unique Convention truly has something
