The event was envisioned in 2004 by Dave Karnes and Steve and Amy Lindsay.  2006 marked the first year of the event and in just three short years more than $400,000 has been raised benefiting cancer research.

Funds are raised through sponsorships, in-kind donations, and sale of banquet and game tickets to the general public.  Grants from funds raised are awarded each year by Kicks for a Cure, A Benefit for Liz’s Legacy, to support cancer research initiatives at UNMC Eppley Cancer Center and Creighton University Hereditary Cancer Center.  The research targets cancers affecting women, but is more global in its impact.  Additionally, a $5,000 grant was awarded in 2008 to Creighton Women’s Soccer for an endowed scholarship.

The primary purpose of the weekend is to raise awareness for women’s cancer education and prevention.  It is also an opportunity to generate a broader interest in women’s collegiate athletics, and to showcase Omaha as a compassionate, vibrant community where health care, education, commerce and recreation intertwine.

Teams participating in Kicks for a Cure have included Division I soccer teams Nebraska, Marquette, Notre Dame, Yale, Kansas, Minnesota, Iowa State and host Creighton, as well as Division II teams UNO, Rockhurst and Truman State.  Local girls’ high school teams have also participated including Westside, Marian, Millard North, Elkhorn, Gretna and Burke. 

Each team plays one game Saturday at Creighton University’s Morrison Stadium (18^th & California Streets), with a seating capacity of over 7,000.  Other activities include a soccer skills clinic for underprivileged youth conducted by participating teams, and autograph sessions following collegiate game.  A benefit banquet Friday night kicks off the weekend. Approximately 500 people each year make a dinner event a unique experience where attendees interact with participating players in a family-oriented environment.