LADY PACERS "THINK PINK" TO BATTLE BREAST CANCER
PLAN TO ATTEND USC AIKEN VS. PRESBYTERIAN ON FEBRUARY 13

AIKEN, S.C.-- USC Aiken women’s basketball has teamed up with over 600 other schools around the country to participate in the Women’s Basketball Coaches Association (WBCA) 2008 “Think Pink” initiative.  A whole evening of events will take place on Wednesday, February 13 when the Lady Pacers host Presbyterian College at 7:00 PM at the Convocation Center. 

The WBCA’s “Think Pink” program is a global, unified effort for the WBCA’s nation of coaches to assist in raising breast cancer awareness on the court, across campuses, in communities, and beyond.  The week of February 8-17 has been set aside for the 2008 initiative. 

“I really applaud the WBCA for promoting “Think Pink” as a fundraiser and breast cancer awareness message,” said USC Aiken head coach Mike Brandt.  “It definitely hits home for me as both my mother and mother-in-law are survivors.  When I received the information from the WBCA, it was an easy decision to participate.” 

“I asked both my son and daughter to join in and help along with USCA student Lauren Stephens, whose mother is another survivor.  My wife chipped in in a big way as has the whole community.” 

Thus far, several WBCA partners and sponsors have chosen to get involved.  ESPN has joined the initiative by dedicating their annual “February Frenzy” women’s college basketball games on ESPN2 and ESPN360.com to promoting breast cancer awareness. 

The NCAA has also partnered with the “Think Pink” initiative by implementing the “Calling for a Cure” campaign where all NCAA women’s basketball officials will be blowing a pink whistle February 8-17. 

For the Lady Pacers’ game against Presbyterian on February 13, all fans are asked to wear pink to the game, and in return they will receive free admission.  A $2.00 donation is requested to benefit USCA’s chosen charity, the Savannah River Cancer Foundation located in Aiken. 

Fiddle Faddle, a local orchestra group under the direction of Laura Tomlin, will perform the National Anthem as well as a special half-time tribute when breast cancer survivors are honored.  Kroger has donated pink carnations for survivors while Aiken Printing donated the printing of the special pink game tickets. 

To purchase advance tickets to the game, please contact the USC Aiken Athletic Department at 803-641-3486 or pick them up at Sweet Cow Creamery, Dr. Holly Woltz’ Veterinary Services, and the Aiken Saddlery.  Breast cancer survivors who will be attending the game are encouraged to contact Mike Brandt at 803-641-3491