Valparaiso University Athletic Department has announced plans to hold an event for the men’s and women’s basketball programs at the Hammond Civic Center on Wednesday, Oct. 16 in partnership with the Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Northwest Indiana and the City of Hammond.
The event, known as “Crusader Hoops in Hammond,” will be held from 3:30-6:30 p.m. and is free and open to the public. Children will have an opportunity to take the court with the teams and learn tips and tricks from Division I student-athletes while meeting their favorite Valpo players.
“We are thrilled to partner with the Boys & Girls Clubs to bring the Region’s Division I teams to the historic Hammond Civic Center again this year,” Valparaiso University Director of Athletics Mark LaBarbera said. “We are especially looking forward to seeing our Lake County fans out at the event. It will be a great way to help kick off our 2019-2020 men’s and women’s basketball seasons.”
The Crusader mascot will be in attendance and a photo booth will be available. Prizes and giveaway items will add to the excitement for fans who attend.
“Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Northwest Indiana has held a long-standing partnership with Valparaiso University and the University’s Athletic Department,” Boys & Girls Club of Greater Northwest Indiana President and CEO Ryan Smiley said. “With service and service-learning being very important to students of Valpo, our Clubs often interact with students and student-athletes for various projects. However, we are proud to take our partnership with Valparaiso University’s Athletic Department one step further by participating in the Young Crusaders Club. This gives our Club members a look at what going to college is all about, and how sports and active lifestyles can contribute to their higher education careers. We look forward to being a part of the ‘Crusader Hoops in Hammond’ event.”