By: Frank Maira, Assistant Director of Athletics/Sports Information Director
MONT ALTO, Pa. – For the first-time ever Penn State Mont Alto's THON is teaming up with the Department of Athletics SAAC (Student-Athlete Advisory Council) and participating in a new initiative to raise awareness and funds for THON, Penn State's student-run philanthropy effort that benefits the Four Diamonds Fund. Part of the Penn State Children's Hospital, the Four Diamonds fund focuses on pediatric cancer research and assists families affected by childhood cancer.
Splashing 3's for THON will take place on Wednesday, January 22 against Christendom College. During both the men's and women's basketball doubleheader, a few local establishments and individuals have committed to sponsoring and donating a monetary amount for every made 3-pointer. For example, Frank's Taste of Italy and 997 Café will each be donating $5 for each made 3-pointer. As of today, the men's and women's programs combined for an average of 11 per game.
"As a fellow student-athlete and THON supporter this is a great initiative and every little bit truly counts. We challenge you to consider jumping onboard with an individual sponsorship as I know that I'll be doing my part come Wednesday," said Penn State Mont Alto's SAAC Representative, MaryAnna Black.
In addition, there will be a THON information table in the MAC lobby during the duration of the evening detailing how fans in attendance can jump onboard to support this initiative.
THON is the largest student-run philanthropy in the world and has raised more than $168 million since it began at Penn State in 1973. A year-long fundraising effort culminates during a weekend in mid-February, as students from all Penn State campuses pack the Bryce Jordan Center on the University Park campus for a 46-hour dance marathon.
Mont Alto is slated to send four dancers to the Bryce Jordan Center on February 21-23rd. You don't have to be in attendance on Wednesday to support this cause, but if you're interested in sponsoring the basketball programs please contact Staci Brennan, srb75@psu.edu.