Eastern Michigan University (EMU) is preparing for a weekend of celebration and competition as the women's basketball team faces the University of Toledo on Saturday, February 1. The events will highlight the contributions of women in sports, raise cancer awareness, and welcome back alumni.
Head Coach Sahar Nusseibeh shared her thoughts with Greg Steiner about National Girls and Women in Sports Day, the annual Play4Kay game, and the return of nearly 30 former EMU players for Alumni Weekend.
Reflecting on her own journey, Nusseibeh said, "I can remember sitting in my father's office, watching Notre Dame, UConn, and Villanova on a little TV and just idolizing those women. I would point at the screen and say, 'I want to be like them.' If you can see her, you can be her." She emphasized that sports help girls grow into confident leaders.
Young athletes will have opportunities to participate in clinics before the game with EMU's teams. "It's going to be an incredible experience for young kids," Nusseibeh said. A post-game autograph session with the team is also planned.
The Play4Kay event during Saturday's game aims to raise breast cancer awareness in honor of NC State coach Kay Yow. "Coach Yow was an incredible woman—so strong and resilient," Nusseibeh said. EMU's players will wear pink attire to support this cause.
Nearly 30 former EMU women's basketball players are returning for Alumni Weekend. "It's amazing to have so many of our alumni coming back," Nusseibeh said. She highlighted the importance of connecting current players with their predecessors: "I call it bridge building—connecting the present with the past."
With five home games left this season, Nusseibeh encouraged fans to support the team: "Our women work so hard, and seeing fans in the stands means the world to them."
Tickets are available at EMUEagles.com/tickets or by calling 734-487-3669.
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