Athletics raises over $200 to help the Norris Cotton Cancer Center fight breast cancer

RINDGE, N.H. (February 16, 2011) -- The Franklin Pierce University Department of Athletics, its men's and women's basketball teams, and the ice hockey program, helped to raise over $200 for the Norris Cotton Cancer Center of Keene this past Saturday during Breast Cancer Awareness Day on the Rindge campus.

Several events and activities were held during the men's and women's basketball doubleheader to help raise awareness of the battle against the dreaded disease. There was an honorary jump ball prior to the women's game, followed by halftime presentations during both games from survivors of breast cancer and employees of the Cotton Cancer Center. Between games, all guests of Franklin Pierce Athletics were treated to lunch, courtesy of the women's basketball team and parents of the players.

"It was a wonderful day to recognize the real heroes," said women's basketball head coach Steve Hancock. "All of the survivors and employees of the cancer center have gone through so many difficult and trying times, and the experiences they shared helped everyone gain a new appreciation for all of their sacrifices.They have so much strength and courage and it was really special to hear them speak about it."

The women's basketball team wore their all-pink jerseys during the game and greeted breast cancer survivors afterwards. The ice hockey team also took part in the day during their home game that evening at the Jason Richie Ice Arena in Winchendon, Mass. The Ravens covered their sticks in pink tape and wore pink shoe laces to commemorate the day. Prior to the opening face-off, there was a ceremonial puck drop featuring another breast cancer survivor from the Norris Cotton Cancer Center. Head coach Jaymie Harrington gave the new Ravens' fan an official team jersey and a puck as a sign of appreciation for her strength in facing the battle against the disease.

"It was a special day for the Franklin Pierce Athletics Department and I was really excited that we were able to be a part of it," Harrington said. "Our players rallied behind the cause and were eager to help out in any way possible. The women that were on campus and at the rink on Saturday are very brave and we were happy to honor them and their courage."

Members of the ice hockey, volleyball and women's soccer programs were on hand at all three events helping to raise money for the cancer center. Franklin Pierce Athletics raffled off gift bags and Pierce Pride clothing, while also holding a silent auction for autographed items.

This marked the second fundraising event Franklin Pierce Athletics held for the Norris Cotton Cancer Center, as the field hockey, women's lacrosse, men's soccer and women's soccer programs also hosted an event back on Oct. 2 during a tripleheader of games at Sodexo Field. Members from all four teams helped to collect donations as the department raised $232 for the cause.

"I'm very proud of our student-athletes and coaches for the dedication they have shown in helping this worthy cause," Vice President/Director of Athletics Bruce Kirsh said. "The women and their families that were our guests on Saturday have unbelievable strength and spirit, and their courage was obvious the entire afternoon. We look forward to working with the Norris Cotton Cancer Center on future events."

For more information on Franklin Pierce Athletics, please visit the department's official website at athletics.franklinpierce.edu(.) To follow the program even further, please visit Franklin Pierce Athletics on YouTube (www.youtube.com/FranklinPierceSports), Twitter (www.twitter.com/FPUathletics) and Facebook (www.facebook.com/FranklinPierceAthletics).