The 29th edition of the Coaches vs. Cancer golf tournament kicked off Thursday at Penn State’s University Park campus, drawing a roster of current and former coaches, players, and athletes from across the university’s basketball and football programs.
A Tradition of Hope
Participants include head coach Mike Rhoades alongside former coaches Bruce Parkhill and Jerry Dunn, while alumni such as Talor Battle, Joe Crispin, and Stefen Wisniewski joined the scramble. The field also features BMX star Jamie Bestwick and a host of other former Nittany Lions who have remained connected to the school’s athletic legacy.
Since its inception in 1995, the event has generated more than $5 million for the American Cancer Association, with this year’s edition already surpassing $3.2 million in cumulative fundraising. The tournament’s impact extends beyond the fairway, supporting research and patient services across the nation.
The schedule blends competition with community engagement: a welcome reception on Thursday, a full day of golf on Friday, and an awards dinner that honors top performers and highlights the cause’s progress.
Organizers say the blend of sports camaraderie and charitable purpose creates a unique platform for raising awareness, and they hope the tradition will continue to inspire future generations of student‑athletes.