CHAMPAIGN, Ill. – The Illini Networkers, volleyball's dedicated support group, will host a set of silent auctions at this weekend's matches, where fans will have the chance to bid on special-edition pink jerseys that will be worn in the annual Breast Cancer Awareness match on October 14 against Maryland as well as a number that will not be worn in the match. All benefits will go to the Mills Breast Cancer Institute in Urbana, Ill., which helps local breast cancer patients. Donations will also be accepted at the auction tables throughout both matches.
The silent auction will feature 21 special-edition jerseys, 20 of which will be pink with navy lettering, as well as the No. 3 navy libero jersey with pink lettering to be worn by senior Brandi Donnelly. The auction begins when doors open at 6 p.m. on Friday (October 6) at the North end of Huff Hall. Fans will have an additional chance to bid on Saturday (October 7), with the auction re-opening with the doors at 6 p.m. and concluding at the start of the third set.
The highest bidder on each jersey will have the opportunity to select the name of their choice to be placed on the back, and 17 of those jerseys will be worn by the player with that number when the Illini take on Maryland next weekend. Due to NCAA compliance regulations, the chosen name may not match the last name of the player wearing the jersey, even if a different first initial is added in front of the last name. Similarly, nicknames of any kind will not be accepted. Jerseys will be laundered after the match and subsequently distributed to the winners.
Four more limited-edition jerseys, including pink jerseys sporting Nos. 3, 11, 13 and 19 will also be up for bid.
This will be the sixth season that the Illini Networkers, along with the Illinois volleyball program, have hosted an annual Breast Cancer Awareness match in October, with the total amount donated to charity topping over $20,300. Last year's event raised over $4000 for Mills Breast Cancer Institute, and the Orange and Blue hope to top that figure once again this season.
The Mills Breast Cancer Institute, located at Carle Hospital in Urbana, 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.
Fans who would like to support the organization without bidding in the auction are welcome to give donations for the Mills Breast Cancer Institute directly to the Networkers at the auction tables throughout the weekend. Interested fans should make the check payable to "Illini Networkers," with "Mills" on the memo line. Fans may also submit tax-deductible donations payable to "Carle Center for Philanthropy" with "Mills" or "MBCI" on the memo line.
Quick Hits:
- 21 jerseys (17 game-worn, four not game-worn) sold via silent auction at the Purdue and Indiana matches on October 6 and 7.
- Annual pink match to be held October 14 vs. Maryland
- Proceeds will benefit Mills Breast Cancer Institute
- Donations are accepted
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