Greg Gard, wife Michelle host 9th annual Garding Against Cancer Event

Mar 19, 2026; Portland, OR, USA; Wisconsin Badgers head coach Greg Gard reacts during the second half of a first round game of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament against the High Point Panthers at Moda Center. Mandatory Credit: Troy Wayrynen-Imagn Images | Troy Wayrynen-Imagn Images May 1st marked the 9th annual Garding Against Cancer Event, as Wisconsin Badgers head coach Greg Gard and his wife Michelle hosted over 600 people at the Kohl Center to support and recognize the Garding Against Cancer initiative that has done tremendous work across the state of Wisconsin. Gard, who spent time with the media before the event, acknowledged that the initiative is hoping to cross the $11 million mark this year in its ninth year.

“It’s gotten beyond our wildest imaginations,” Gard said about Garding Against Cancer Event. “Obviously, this is year 9 and it’s grown to something we would have never envisioned 9 years ago. And the fact that we’re at capacity again tonight just speaks volumes to the support that we have that’s come.

Well, people from all over the state here tonight, obviously, having 3 of our own Badger coaches join me here with Mike [Hastings], Mark [Johnson], and Kelly [Sheffield] is special. But most importantly, just the impact we’re being able to make. “We’ll cross hopefully the $11 million mark tonight in 9 years.

So I can’t say enough about the support. Obviously, our name goes on it, but there are so many people that have their fingerprints on this to make this as hugely successful as it is. And ultimately, at the end of the day, we’re helping people a few blocks away at the Carbone Center, but also across the state.