LOCK HAVEN – With its spring season already swinging into gear, the Lock Haven University softball team is eager to announce the kickoff of its annual drive to Knock MS Out of the Park. It is the fifth year the Lady Eagles have partnered with the National MS Society in its battle against Multiple Sclerosis (MS).
Multiple Sclerosis is a disease that affects the central nervous system, and approximately 400,000 Americans have been diagnosed with MS in the United States. Working with the National MS Society is something that “hits” close to home for the Lady Eagles. Former head coach and alumna Kim Lindsey was diagnosed with MS in 1993. Lindsey (formerly Hasson) was on the 1988 NCAA Division II National Championship runner-up team, coached the Lady Eagles from 1990-1999 and currently works in the Department of Athletics as the equipment coordinator.
The Lady Eagles ask donors to pledge dollar amounts per home run hit by the 2011 squad, or supporters can elect to pledge a flat donation. All proceeds from the season-long event directly benefit the National MS Society. Over four years the Crimson and White have raised approximately $15,000, and this season the Lady Eagles aim to top last year’s $3,000 total. To get the bats swinging, the softball program is leading the way by pledging $5 per home run. Donors who pledge at that level or higher will receive a free LHU softball T-shirt or hat.
LHU softball is also selling Knock MS Out of the Park wristbands throughout the semester. With a $3 donation, you will receive a wristband to display your support to assist those currently living with MS and to work to find a cure.
“We are proud to have received so much support for our Knock MS Out of the Park efforts over the years,” said head softball coach Kelly Shannon, “and we hope to continue to be able to make significant annual contributions to the National MS Society.”
She added, “The cause is something our team embraces, and the fact that we can more closely understand the debilitating effects of the disease through the eyes of former LHU head coach and alumna and current Equipment Manager Kim Lindsey reminds us just how important and needed the awareness and fundraising efforts are and can be in the lives of those affected by Multiple Sclerosis.”
The team is accepting pledges through May 31. To receive your pledge card, please contact assistant softball coach Danielle Fraser at dfraser@lhup.edu or (570) 484-2574.
