Youngstown, Ohio — Youngstown State's women's basketball program and the Rich Center for Autism are hosting an Autism Awareness Game this Wednesday at 6:30 p.m. at Zidian Family Arena at Beeghly Center.
YSU's student-athletes will be wearing special autism awareness jerseys featuring puzzle pieces inside the numbers and university's Y logo for the game against Northern Kentucky. As part of the event, those game-worn jerseys will be auctioned off and the proceeds will benefit the Rich Center.
"Our program is honored to partner with The Rich Center for Autism and show support for the autistic community," said YSU head coach Melissa Jackson. "There are many individuals and families affected by autism, I know our players will wear these jerseys with great pride as we spread awareness."
"We are very appreciative of YSU athletics and the women's basketball team for their continued support of The Rich Center." said Dr. Mike Latessa, Executive Director of The Rich Center for Autism. "Their willingness to help spread awareness while including our students and families during athletic events helps us achieve our mission while building relationships that will last a lifetime."
The jersey auction begins on Wednesday, and fans can view and bid on the jerseys by visiting ysusports.com/penguinauction. The auction will close at 7 p.m. on Jan. 21., and winners will be able to pick up their jerseys at the YSU Athletic Ticket Office in Stambaugh Stadium during regular business hours (9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Monday through Friday) starting on Jan. 22.
If items are requested to be shipped, the winning bidder will be responsible for all shipping and handling charges. Please contact Chris Sumner at cmsumner@ysu.edu or 330-941-7229 to make arrangements for those items to be shipped.
The Rich Center for Autism was established in 1995 through the collaborative efforts of the Kosar, Rich (Ricchiuti), and Rubino families who have a shared interest in autism. In collaboration with Youngstown State University, The Rich Center for Autism is located on the campus and functions as a not-for-profit.
