Huntingdon College Coaches vs. Cancer Classic comes to a close

The 2011 Huntingdon College Coaches vs. Cancer Classic wrapped up a successful run on Saturday.

Huntingdon's Roland Arena hosted 15 women's games during the course of three days to help raise funds to fight cancer.

"I'm very excited about the success of this year's Coaches vs. Cancer Classic," Huntingdon athletic director and head women's basketball coach Buzz Phillips said. "We had some first-class teams involved, some great games and coaches that were enthusiastic about the purpose of the tournament. I think everyone enjoyed themselves, we saw some good basketball and were able to raise money for a great cause. That's what it's all about."

Phillips said the participation of AUM and Faulkner only added to the tournament. Phillips said the willingness of the two programs to play games later in the day helped bring in additional fans.

"I'd like to thank AUM and Faulkner for being willing to play the late games on Thursday and Friday," Phillips said. "That allowed more fans of the local schools to get off work and make it to the games. Especially on Thursday, when Huntingdon played at 5 p.m., AUM played at 7 and Faulkner played at 9, we had some great crowds."

The exact amount raised was not available on Saturday, but Phillips said the tournament proceeds raised on Thursday and Friday had already surpassed past totals.

"This is the most successful Coaches vs. Cancer Classic we've had yet," Phillips said. "We're appreciative to everyone involved that helped make it such a success."