Coaches Versus Cancer event on Friday at Arbor Crest

Eastern Washington basketball coach Shantay Legans won’t miss the Coaches Versus Cancer Event, especially not this year.

“My mom’s cancer was found early, but it is heartbreaking to see someone you love go through radiation to kill the cancer,” Legans said.

“Research is key to finding cures. It was not that long ago that there was no hope for lung cancer. With new drugs and research, lung cancer prognosis is very good. That’s what you get for raising funds for cancer – life,” Legans said.

Legans and others in the community can contribute to that fundraising on Friday at the Coaches vs. Cancer Game On! Gala at Arbor Crest Wine Cellars. Tickets are $95 for general admission that begins at 6 p.m., and $145 for VIP admissions which begins an hour earlier.

The event raises funds for cancer research and programs that are available in the Spokane region.

The evening will include basketball free-throw challenges, a golf chipping contest and a football toss. Food and wine stations will be scattered throughout the event, with prizes at each station.

Participants can bid on silent and live auctions for such things as a Seattle Seahawks flyaway package, a Big Sky Report Ski Vacation and the opportunity to train with Sandy Zimmerman in her American Ninja Warrior home-course.

“Our goal is to fund the research and find better treatments and cures for this disease. And we’re fighting it with as much drive and passion as we can,” said Jenna Berlin, American Cancer Society community manager and event planner.

Arbor Crest general manager Jim van Loben Sels said he’s always wanted to participate in the Coaches Versus Cancer program, but to host it is a special treat for the winery.

“Cancer touches everyone in one way or another, and hosting this event was a way to give back and participate,” said van Loben Sels. “The American Cancer Society represents and funds all cancer research, so we couldn’t think of a better backdrop to make it a great evening.”