Lansing Sun

Michigan State University's hockey team is set to raise awareness for cancer throughout November with its annual "Spartans Full Strength" initiative. The program aims to honor those affected by cancer and educate the community on the issue.

Head coach Adam Nightingale stated, "Not many of us can say that we have not been personally affected by a cancer diagnosis. This is a chance for us to acknowledge, support, and educate in our community. We want to bring people together and support not just those individuals battling cancer, but their families, loved ones, and caretakers."

This year, MSU hockey is collaborating with the Stephen Swistak Memorial Fund and supporting Matt and Kelly Deschamps' family. Steve Swistak was a former Spartan player who passed away from esophageal cancer in 2015. Matt Deschamps is an assistant coach at the University of Michigan whose wife Kelly has been diagnosed with Stage III inflammatory breast cancer.

Throughout November, initiatives will be held at all MSU home games against Ohio State (Nov. 8-9), Notre Dame (Nov. 15-16), and Lindenwood (Nov. 30-Dec. 1). Fans are encouraged to wear lavender or purple ribbons to show support for cancer awareness.

"I Honor" signs will be available at entrance gates for fans wishing to publicly support those affected by cancer. These signs can be placed on "Honor Walls" at Munn Ice Arena's main entrance during the initiative.

Fans are also encouraged to share their support on social media using #SpartansFullStrength and tagging @MSU_Hockey on Instagram and X. The Spartan hockey staff will display the Spartans Full Strength logo throughout November, while players' helmets will feature stickers.

The Swistak Memorial Fund and other organizations focused on cancer awareness will have tables at home games during the month.

Additionally, Michigan State's game against the US National Team Development Program in Plymouth on Nov. 21 will contribute part of its ticket sales to the Deschamps family.

The Swistak Memorial Fund supports various initiatives including ECAN, partnering with Rainbow Connection for Michigan children facing life-threatening conditions, sponsoring a team physician's suite at Munn Arena, and funding a scholarship awarded to a Spartan player demonstrating hard work and teamwork.