AU Football Players in Pink

It would seem as though pink footballs and pink cleats are an oxymoron. However, this is not the case if it is the month of October. October is breast cancer awareness month, and with nearly 12% of women being diagnosed with breast cancer at some point in their life, it is definitely an object of concern.

Some NFL leagues and other sports teams have reached out by showing their support in sporting the pink during game time.

The major leagues are showing their support, but they are not alone. Auburn University athletes also have a heart for the cause. “I think it’s definitely something we should support; a lot of women have (breast cancer). It is a big deal,” said Auburn tailback Mario Fannin.

The team has not yet been asked to wear pink cleats or even pink wristbands for that matter, but there seems to be no objection to the idea if it were to be presented to them. “I definitely would wear a pink jersey… or maybe a white jersey with pink letters,” said tight end Tommy Trott.

Breast cancer is the most common form of cancer among women in America today. The issue is vital and Americans today are standing up to address it, especially during this month. With football in full swing and in the spotlight during the month of October, it seems as though the two issues coincide with one another quite smoothly. Why not use the hype of football to bring attention to a more prominent issue? Auburn’s offensive lineman Bart Eddins agrees. “I think we should use whatever attention we get to better other people’s lives,” he said.

America is largely aware of football statistics and game schedules every Saturday, but this month, the call to awareness is for something much greater. October brings the opportunity to be aware of the ever-present disease affecting women and their families all around us. It is the time for everyone, even our athletes, to fight breast cancer.

Reported by Raegen Kellis.