Real men wear pink

October is the National Breast Cancer Awareness month and the National Football League has joined forces with the American Cancer Society to help spread knowledge and awareness of breast cancer. The NFL has helped bring the movement to the national spotlight of NFL fans. The players, referees and coaches began on Oct. 4 wearing pink gloves, cleats, hats, and towels and will continue to do so until the end of October. The end zones of the field are also decorated with pink helmets and logos.

“I think it is pretty cool what the National Football League is doing. I support it and it needs to be out there so people are informed. This is a great fight for the cause and it is making people more aware,” said Eric Grunbaun, a Cal State Fullerton senior criminal justice major.

The NFL is taking the pink merchandise further by auctioning off the game worn items at NFLAuction.NFL.com with all proceeds going to the American Cancer Society and charities. NFL Shop and stadium booths are also selling pink merchandise to let fans join in and support the cause. Merchandise for all 32 teams are available. The NFL Referees association will also join in by donating part of their pay for every game in October that they call. They also have worn pink accented clothes as part of their uniforms and will continued to do so for the rest of the month.

“I think it is cute. It is nice of the men of the NFL to support the cause while playing their games. This is a great honor for women and I can not speak for all women, but I appreciate it,” said Ashley Sinclair, a CSUF senior majoring in criminal justice.

“Gatorade will produce 1.9 million pink ribbon bottles, on sale at retail stores throughout October and Gatorade sideline carts will feature pink ribbon decals during October as well,” according to NFL.com, some other pink merchandise includes cheerleading outfits; halftime show costumes, and the distribution of pink ribbons to fans and employees. The NFL is doing a great thing and it is important for women everywhere. Too many women are being affected by breast cancer and early detection is key. Read more.