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.
