04.15.2010 / Join the Fun at Kicks for a Cure

The feature highlight will be a 7 p.m. match between the Creighton men and the reigning NCAA Division I champion University of Virginia. That game will conclude a Saturday schedule of games that includes a varsity high school match and two women’s collegiate matches: UNO vs. Northwest Missouri State and Creighton University vs. University of Nebraska. All matches will be played at the Michael G. Morrison, S.J. Soccer Stadium at 18th and California Street on the Creighton University campus.

Since “Kicks for a Cure” was started in 2004, it has generated nearly half a million dollars to support cancer research initiatives at the Creighton University Hereditary Cancer Center and the UNMC Eppley Cancer Center. Proceeds from the event are donated through “Liz’s Legacy”, a charitable fund set up in memory of the late Liz Karnes, avid educator and activist as well as a devoted “soccer mom”. Her public struggle with the disease, and her involvement with cancer research at both institutions inspired many who deal with cancer.

“Kicks for a Cure” is not only for soccer fans. Anyone who has been touched by this disease is encouraged to make a memorial or a tribute to a cancer victim or survivor, knowing their donations will directly support research in women’s cancer.

"Everyone knows someone who has been affected by cancer," said Daniel O'Neill, President, First National Bank of Omaha, presenting sponsor of Kicks for a Cure. "The passion and commitment that goes into this event is remarkable and instrumental in the support of cancer research. This research not only gives hope to patients and their families, but it also leads to innovative and more effective prevention and treatment approaches for Cancer.”

“This event has been very successful since its inception. There are some great people involved in the event who put countless hours in to help make it a success. There is a wonderful vision for the future and we hope to build on the success each year." said Creighton women's soccer coach Bruce Erickson.

“We are excited to be a part of a great cause and a great tournament," said Erickson. "It’s always great to play Nebraska (Creighton defeated Nebraska in the event in April 2008) and this spring will be no different. The teams are very familiar with each other with club teammates a part of each team. We expect a great crowd and a great match."

One of the highlights of the weekend is a clinic on Friday for underpriveleged kids and a banquet. Each year, a student-athlete from the Creighton women's soccer team is awarded a $1,000 scholarship. Claire Zach was the recipient in 2008 and Annemarie Hengel in 2009. Stay tuned for the 2010 recipient!

“Kicks for a Cure” is sponsored by First National Bank. All proceeds of the ticket sales will go to “Kicks for a Cure”, and can be purchased at the Morrison Stadium ticket office at Creighton University. All seats are general admission and cost $8 for adults and $5 for youths. Children five years of age and younger will be admitted free. Discount coupons for $1 off are available at all Omaha-area First National Bank locations.

For more information, visit kicksforacure.org.

Have you been to “Kicks for a Cure” in the past? If so, please share your thoughts on this event.