Calling a foul just became a lot more colourful, as the West Kootenay Basketball Officals Association (WKBOA) kicked off its “pink whistle” campaign in an effort to fight cancer.
Dave Brewer and Kevin Flanagan each donned their pink accessory before the Rossland-Castlegar game in Trail men’s basketball action Wednesday.
Initiated by the B.C. Basketball Officials Association three years ago, the “Call a Foul on Cancer – Pink Whistle Campaign,” raises funds and awareness by having all officials use a pink whistle at all levels of basketball in the province for the month of February.
The WKBOA purchased the bright pink “Fox 40” whistles for the 16 members out of their fees, in addition, each referee is encouraged to donate a game’s wages to the cause.
“It’s our way of giving to the provincial initiative,” said WKBOA president Dave Brewer.
The program started after two referees on the Lower Mainland died because of the disease, said Brewer.
“One of our own members up here went through it himself, so most of the guys are well aware of it – it affects everybody.”
Donations through this campaign help fund cancer research, prevention, support and services for those affected by cancer in B.C.
As more and more men, women and children are battling this disease each year, supporters can take pride in knowing that their donations are helping fund the B.C. Cancer Agency, fight for public policies to make healthy living possible and provide support that the Canadian Cancer Society offers through their programs such as Cancer Information Service, Cancer Connection, Camps, Accommodation and Financial Support.
To donate or for more information go to bcboa.ca.