MANKATO, Minn. – The No. 5-ranked Minnesota State football team returns home Saturday, Oct. 24, to host No. 22 Wayne State at 1 p.m. at Blakeslee Stadium as part of Family Weekend and the annual Tackle Cancer initiative benefiting the Randy Shaver Cancer Research and Community Fund.

Minnesota State enters the matchup as one of just 10 undefeated teams remaining in NCAA Division II. The Mavericks are 7-0 overall and 6-0 in Northern Sun Intercollegiate Conference play, while the Wildcats are 6-1 overall and 5-1 in conference action.

The Mavericks will wear white helmets, black jerseys and white pants, accented with pink tape in support of Tackle Cancer. The Minnesota Football Coaches Association (MFCA) partners annually with the Randy Shaver Cancer Research and Community Fund to raise money for cancer research, treatment programs and community assistance through football games across Minnesota.

For more information, visit the Randy Shaver Cancer Research & Community Fund.

What Is Tackle Cancer?

Since 2012, the MFCA has led a statewide effort encouraging Minnesota high school and college football teams to designate one game each season as a Tackle Cancer event. Teams promote awareness and support the cause through fundraising campaigns, donations and game-day initiatives.
The effort has expanded to include colleges and universities across Minnesota, as well as support from the Minnesota Vikings.

By the Numbers

• 2025 Total Raised: $658,666
• Raised Since 2012: More than $4.79 million
• 2026 Fundraising Goal: $675,000
• Funds support cancer research grants, prevention programs, treatment initiatives and direct community aid

How Funds Are Used

Proceeds from Tackle Cancer directly support the Randy Shaver Cancer Research and Community Fund, which:

• Funds cancer research projects
• Supports prevention and treatment programs
• Provides direct assistance to Minnesota cancer patients and their families

In 2025, the organization awarded $1.4 million to 22 research projects and eight community aid programs, helping advance cancer research while providing support to those affected by cancer throughout Minnesota.