It’s that special time of the year again, yes its football season. It’s when our best friends become our archrivals, break out our favorite jerseys, and color our faces…pink? In a sport that prides itself on being a man’s game, the NFL has become increasingly pink, raising efforts to bring attention to breast cancer awareness in October. Games from Oct. 5-27 will be designated as NFL Breast Cancer Awareness games.

Their campaign, ‘A Crucial Catch’, in partnership with the American Cancer Society, is focused on the importance of annual screenings for women over 40. The league and teams will promote breast cancer awareness messages during the month with pre-game and in-stadium initiatives, including “Pins That Touch Hearts.” All apparel worn at games by players, coaches, as well as ‘Special K’ balls and pink coins will all be auctioned off at NFL Auction (www.NFLAuction.NFL.com), with proceeds benefitting the American Cancer Society and team charities.

With much of the league having been touched in some way by this deadly disease, I’m so glad to see the NFL putting the time and effort into something so important! Make sure to visit www.cancer.org/ to find information on early detection, screening, and treatments.