Oct. 1, 2009

The National Association of Collegiate Directors of Athletics (NACDA), along with the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) and the Women's Basketball Coaches Association (WBCA), have partnered with the National Association of Basketball Coaches (NABC) to promote the "MILES for MYLES" campaign.

As a tribute to Myles Brand, the NCAA president who died on September 16 as a result of pancreatic cancer, the NABC created "MILES for MYLES," an initiative designed to perpetuate the legacy of leadership of the late NCAA president and to carry on with his valiant fight against pancreatic cancer. On November 7 or 8, college and university campuses are asked too participate in a three-mile run/walk to raise money and awareness for cancer research. The three miles is to recognize the three divisions in the NCAA.

A $1 donation from each participant is sought to raise money to split among the following three funds for cancer research: Coaches vs. Cancer (NABC); The Kay Yow/WBCA Cancer Fund; and the Myles Brand Endowed Chair for Cancer Research at the Indiana University School of Medicine.

“This initiative has been designed to preserve the legacy of Myles Brand, who was an immensely fair man, listened to all issues, and was a compassionate leader. This was someone who really cared about student athletes and their academics,” said NABC Executive Director Jim Haney. “He had a keen interest in men’s basketball and was instrumental in helping the game grow. Myles engaged our coaches and student-athletes, was a great listener, and built a platform for the future.”

For more information on the initiative, including an overview, informational packets, a contact worksheet, an organization checklist and a participation donation sheet, please visit http://www.nabc.org/nabc_programs/miles-for-myles.html.