Despite the difference in school colors, the coaches on the Rutgers University and MSU men’s basketball teams had something in common on Sunday.

The laces on their shoes were gold in honor of the late Spartan fan Lacey Holsworth from St. Johns.

As a part of the annual Coaches vs. Cancer initiative, this past week college coaches have worn the gold laces for an event called #LaceUpForLacey.

Lacey Holsworth’s father, Matt Holsworth, said he and his wife Heather had been working on this event with Shoe Carnival for some time.

“It’s great to know that people still care,” Holsworth said. “Her smile has changed people across the nation.”

In a press conference after the men’s basketball game against Rutgers on Jan. 31, men’s head basketball coach Tom Izzo said he gives the NCAA, Shoe Carnival and Coaches vs. Cancer a lot of credit.

“It’s really been cool,” Izzo said. “I just think it’s one of the neat things that we’ll all do.”

Matt Holsworth said he and his wife Heather are taking action to make a difference to help the cancer society get rid of the disease.

“For pediatric cancer, we are trying to make as many kids as possible to smile,” he said.

Matt Holsworth said he and Heather have learned many qualities from their late daughter.

“She taught us about life,” he said. “To love unconditionally, it didn’t matter who or where or why. It opens your mind and life to what is important.”

“We are trying to spread Lacey’s joy and smile,” Matt Holsworth said.

In addition to the #LaceUpForLacey campaign, the third annual Princess Lacey’s Legacy fundraiser will be held on Feb. 28 at the East Lansing Buffalo Wild Wings location.

Last year’s event had a variety of activities for kids, such as a face painting and a photo booth, in addition to raffle prizes.

The event will go from 11 a.m. to 2 a.m. Proceeds from sales will go to the Princess Lacey’s Legacy foundation and toward raising awareness for pediatric cancer.