“I am able to do all things through Him who strengthens me.”
– Philippians 4:13

Kay Yow left a legacy! The legendary women’s basketball coach at North Carolina State University won 737 games, coached her teams to four Atlantic Coast Conference tournament championships, and had 20 appearances in the NCAA tournament including a Final Four in 1998. She coached the United States women’s team to gold medals at the 1988 Seoul Olympics, the 1986 World Championships, and the 1986 Goodwill Games. In 2000, Yow was named the Division I Women’s Basketball Coach of the Year and was inducted into the Naismith Hall of Fame in 2002. The numbers and awards, however are not the legacy of Kay Yow.

Her three-month battle with breast cancer and how she faced her trials head-on will be what is remembered by those whose lives she touched. Yow refused to feel sorry for herself. “I don’t think, why me? I don’t think anything; it’s life. As you go through life, it’s inevitable that you’re going to face tough times.” Her players say she taught them more than basketball skills. She touched them with her presence. Despite her failing health, Yow was selfless, never missing a day. What was the source of Kay Yow’s strength? When asked by a player how she was doing, she responded, “I am great because God allowed me to wake up this morning. Nothing is going to happen today that God and I can’t handle!” A humble warrior who cared about people, lived with passion, and made a difference in the lives of others is how Coach Yow will be remembered. Now that’s a legacy worth leaving behind!

Heavenly Father, I want to be a warrior for You today. Keep me humble, give me a passion for life and give me the strength to make a difference in the lives of others. Amen.