October 21, 2014 | Volleyball
Champaign, Ill. - In honor of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, the Illini Networkers, Illinois volleyball's devoted support group, once again hosted a set of jersey auctions which helped lead to nearly $5,000 in contributions for Mills Breast Cancer Institute in Urbana. The bulk of the money raised came from the Networkers' annual pink jersey silent auction on Sept. 26-27, where fans had the opportunity to bid on special-edition jerseys that will be worn in Friday's match against Indiana on Oct. 24. The highest bidders were given the opportunity to have the name of their choice printed on the back of their jersey, many of whom chose to honor a loved one who struggled with cancer.
Four additional jerseys were auctioned off online to give fans from far and wide the opportunity to participate, while supplemental donations amounting to over $400 were also collected. In total, $5,130 was generously contributed (price of jerseys not yet factored in), with additional chances to give still to come.
When the Illini wear pink on the court on Friday, fans are encouraged to wear pink as well to show their support for those who have suffered from or lost loved ones to breast cancer. Additional donations for the organization are welcomed and can be given to the Illini Networkers at their table on the North end of the gym.
The Mills Breast Cancer Institute, located at Carle Hospital, was built on a vision of providing expert care close to home. The team includes experts in oncology, breast imaging, reconstructive surgery, genetics, research and support services, giving patients the tools they need in the fight against breast cancer. MBCI is committed to providing patients with comprehensive treatment tailored to their needs, while creating an environment where patients and families can find the support and resources necessary to heal and cope with breast cancer. For more information, visit the MBCI website.
Last season, the event brought in a total of $5,055 (before expenses), so the Illini are pleased to have topped that figure this year, with further contributions still on their way.
Following Friday's competition, the Illini remain at Huff Hall to host No. 13 Purdue at 5 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 25 live on the Big Ten Network. Please note the earlier match start time, as BTN elected to move up first serve in order to fit the match into their packed Saturday lineup. The Boilermakers are tied with Wisconsin for first place in the Big Ten standings just one match ahead of the Illini, as the Orange and Blue will have an opportunity to unseat the Boilermakers at the top of the conference. Since the football team is also home this weekend, Saturday's match will once again be a Football Ticket Stub Redemption match, allowing fans complimentary general admission with their ticket stubs from the Minnesota game for as long as seating is available. For more information about the upcoming promotional events, contact Karl Feak, Assistant Director of Sports Marking at kfeak2@illinois.edu.
