I attend a lot of Loyola University women’s basketball games. Two recent game experiences transcended basketball, though.

The first special day was National Girls and Women in Sports Day, which featured a pre-game basketball clinic and a post-game player meet-and-greet. Despite a tough three-point loss, the Ramblers were all smiles as they met hundreds of young fans.

I saw proud parents watching their daughters make the day for their young fans. The players all spoke of growing the game and paying it forward. The hour-long session was a complete feel-good moment. Women’s sports are getting more exposure than ever thanks to events like these.

Sam Galanopoulos

Sitori Tanin

Kira Chivers

The next game was the annual Play4Kay game to raise awareness for breast cancer. A legendary college coach for 38 years, Kay Yow died from cancer in 2009 after a 22-year battle. Play4Kay honors her bravery while raising funds. There were a few short speeches and presentations. Members of the Loyola family who fought cancer received thunderous applause.

© Loyola University Athletics – Steve Woltmann

© Loyola University Athletics – Steve Woltmann

Immediately after the game, before celebrating the win, Loyola Coach Allison Guth took the mic to speak about Coach Yow and the cause. Coach Guth went into more details in the media session.

Both games were exciting, but the lasting impact goes beyond a win or loss. Each time, I came away feeling better. Even the usual traffic snarls didn’t seem so bad.

© Loyola University Athletics – Steve Woltmann

A couple weeks later, Loyola’s season ended with a tournament loss to Richmond. It ended a successful season, as Coach Guth continues to build a winner. Shortly after the season ended, I interviewed Coach Guth about her two seasons coaching the Ramblers.

As sad as I am to see the basketball season end, I am happy to see the Loyola softball team start their home games. As with the basketball team, I’ll attend as many softball games as I can.

— John Wroblewski, online writer