Courtesy of Sarah Houseknecht, CACC Office

WATERBURY, Conn. ­- Fitch High School graduate, Taylor Doyle, is proud to be thinking pink this month in support of breast cancer awareness. Doyle, a sophomore at Post University, said the Women's Basketball Coaches Association (WBCA) "Pink Zone" program is one that she holds close to her heart.

Doyle's mother, Robin Doyle, was diagnosed with breast cancer in March of 2009. The sports management major is a member of both the volleyball and basketball programs at Post and said both teams have supported breast cancer awareness this school year.

"She is doing pretty well," said Doyle. "She had two surgeries, because they didn't get it all the first time. And then she went through radiation. Now she'll be on medication for the rest of her life, a pill."

The national dates for the "Pink Zone" games, set up by the WBCA will be Feb. 12-21. The initiative that began in 2007 was set up to raise breast cancer awareness both on and off the court. It has since spread to other sports on college campuses and men's programs have started supporting the cause.

According the WBCA Web site, the 2009 campaign raised over $1.3 million with more than 1,600 NCAA teams in participation.

Some Central Atlantic Collegiate Conference (CACC) institutions, such as Post, are getting a head start on the national program. Post will host conference opponent Goldey-Beacom College Feb. 6 at 1 p.m. Post will be taking pledges from Eagles fans to raise money for every stat players rack up. Post is one of several CACC institutions that have been participating in the WBCA "Pink Zone" events since the program commenced in 2007.

"My mom will be there," said Doyle. "She is going to sponsor me for all of my stats and donate for the cause."

According to Post Assistant Director of Athletics and Senior Woman Administrator Karin Mann, the American Cancer Society (ACS) will be handing out information at the game to raise awareness. Mann said the volleyball team donated $400 to the local ACS last fall and all proceeds from the upcoming "Pink Zone" event will also be donated.

Doyle said she is thankful that her school has set aside this day of awareness because breast cancer can hit anyone at any time.

"It creates a support system," said Doyle. "I feel like you never know. I never thought it would happen to my mom."

Post University and the other 13 CACC institutions will all be participating in the "Pink Zone" initiative this February. The Central Atlantic Collegiate Conference is an NCAA Division II Conference composed of institutions in Connecticut, Delaware, New Jersey, New York and Pennsylvania.