Feb. 22, 2005

BOCA RATON, FL - Saturday's "Hoops for Hope" night by the Florida Atlantic University women's basketball program will go a long way toward helping those fighting cancer. The event, which was structured around the FAU-Gardner-Webb game at FAU Gymnasium, helped raise over $6,000 for the local chapter of the American Cancer Society.

"I think for it being our first event, it was very successful," said FAU head coach Chancellor Dugan. "We look forward to continuing its success in years to come."

Dugan said the event was something she had wanted to do since she came to FAU in the summer of 1999. Her father died from the disease while some of the current Lady Owls have family members battling cancer.

"Without a doubt, we plan on making this an annual event at FAU with hopes of building on this year's success," added Dugan. "It's such a great cause for the American Cancer Society."

Among the activities on Saturday was a halftime shooting competition in which various individuals, included Boca Raton mayor Steve Abrams and FAU men's basketball Coach Sidney Green, participated with Bank Atlantic donating money based on how many baskets were made.

In addition, all cancer survivors attending the game were recognized prior to the conclusion of the FAU-Gardner Webb game.