An NC State Athletics Hall of Famer and former NC State women’s basketball head coach, Kay Yow, was named the recipient of the 2020 Ronnie Shavlik Award of Merit, as announced at this year’s Evening of Stars Gala, hosted by the NC State Alumni Association.
“Susan and I are thrilled to be able to accept the Ronnie Shavlik Award of Merit on behalf of our sister Kay,” said Debbie Yow.
“NC State means so much to our family, added Susan Yow. To get this award for Kay, and for Kay to be remembered in this way, is very, very special to us.” I know Ronnie Shavlik was a great player here, a great team player. Kay would have loved that.”
Debbie Yow and Susan Yow, sisters of Kay, were on hand to accept the award. The sisters have also graciously donated a pin worn by Kay to be auctioned off with proceeds benefiting the Wolfpack Club. The general public will have a chance to bid on this item that belonged to the legendary Coach Yow. The auction will run from Thursday, Nov. 12 until Friday, Nov. 20 at 2 p.m.
The Ronnie Shavlik Award of Merit is the highest honor a former NC State student-athlete or member of the athletic staff is eligible to receive from the Wolfpack Club. The award is named for former Wolfpack basketball great Ronnie Shavlik and is given to the figure who displays leadership and service, as well as support for NC State Athletics.
Kay Yow is one of the most notable figures in NC State Athletics history. She guided her squads to 20 of 27 NCAA Tournaments, 11 trips to the Sweet 16, and a trip to the Elite Eight and the Final Four in 1998. Yow was part of an elite group of Olympic coaches chosen to lead USA Basketball in the pursuit of Olympic gold. Yow is also part of the Naismith Hall of Fame, Women’s Basketball Hall of Fame and the FIBA Hall of Fame.
Coach Yow was first diagnosed with breast cancer in 1987. She passed away in 2009, after a 22-year, on-again, off-again battle with the disease. Coach Yow fought that battle in the public arena. Her hope was to inspire others to make a difference in a fight that impacts each and every one of us. Her diagnosis and battle led to the foundation of the Kay Yow Cancer Fund, which has raised $7.78 million.
