Norfolk State University Athletics

Norfolk State Athletics Welcomes Kay Yow Cancer Fund for Play4Kay, EmPOWERment Tour Weekend

10/2/2026 10:00:00 AM

NORFOLK, Va. — Norfolk State Athletics will join the fight against cancers affecting women during Homecoming Week, welcoming the Kay Yow Cancer Fund to campus for a three-day visit highlighted by the organization's EmPOWERment Tour and Play4Kay volleyball and football games.

The weekend will begin Thursday, Oct. 8, when the Kay Yow Cancer Fund brings its EmPOWERment Tour to Norfolk State from 4 to 6 p.m. The campus visit will include NSU Athletics, student-athletes and members of the university community before the Spartans' volleyball team hosts North Carolina Central at 6 p.m. in its designated Play4Kay game.

The EmPOWERment Tour is designed to educate, empower and equip the next generation with resources to help break down barriers to quality cancer healthcare. Through educational programming and community engagement, the tour encourages participants to learn more about cancer prevention, treatment, survivorship and the resources available to support women and families impacted by the disease.

The Play4Kay initiative, created from the vision of legendary NC State women's basketball coach Kay Yow, uses the power of sports to bring communities together while recognizing cancer survivors, thrivers and warriors. The initiative also supports the Kay Yow Cancer Fund's mission to fight all cancers affecting women through research, education and access to care.

The partnership carries special significance for Norfolk State. Norfolk State Vice President and Director of Athletics Dr. Melody Webb serves on the Kay Yow Cancer Fund Board of Directors and is a breast cancer survivor, giving the organization's mission a deeply personal connection to the Spartan community.

Webb's involvement reflects both her commitment to supporting women affected by cancer and Norfolk State Athletics' broader effort to use its platform to promote awareness, education and access to resources. Her connection to the Fund also strengthens a weekend designed to extend beyond competition and create meaningful engagement across the university community.

Following Thursday's volleyball match, representatives from the Kay Yow Cancer Fund will continue their visit Friday with a leadership meeting involving Webb and Kay Yow Cancer Fund leadership before taking part in Norfolk State's Homecoming Spirit Fest.

The weekend will culminate Saturday, Oct. 10, when Norfolk State football hosts Virginia University of Lynchburg in the Spartans' Play4Kay game as part of Homecoming festivities.

Gates will open at noon ahead of the 2 p.m. kickoff, with Play4Kay activities and recognition incorporated into the game-day experience. Kay Yow Cancer Fund guests will join the Norfolk State community as the Spartans carry the organization's mission from the volleyball court to the football field.

Together, the EmPOWERment Tour and Play4Kay games will provide Norfolk State student-athletes, students, staff, alumni and fans an opportunity to learn, engage and support a cause that reaches far beyond athletics.

Through education, awareness and the shared platform of sport, Norfolk State Athletics and the Kay Yow Cancer Fund will unite throughout Homecoming Week in support of healthier women, stronger communities and brighter futures.