Hoosiers looking forward to Hysteria on October 17

  • 09/27/2008 10:37 pm in

October is almost here and that means it’s just about time for the season to kick off with Hoosier Hysteria. Tom Crean’s club will take the floor for the first time in front of the Indiana faithful on October 17 at Assembly Hall along with the women’s basketball team and the volleyball team. Here’s the official release from IU media relations:

Bloomington, Indiana – The Indiana University Athletics Department will hold its annual Hoosier Hysteria on Friday, October 17 in Assembly Hall. The event will feature the IU men’s and women’s basketball teams and the IU volleyball program.

“Our players and coaches are really looking forward to this event.,” said IU men’s basketball coach Tom Crean. “It will be a great way for the fans to get to know us and for our kids to understand just how important Indiana basketball is to those who support our program. Our hope is to have as many former players back as possible to also be a part of this special night.”

Doors will open at 5:30 p.m. and the cost of admission is three canned goods or a cash donation both of which will benefit the Hoosier Hills Food Bank. The evening will begin with an autograph session at 6 p.m. Then the Hoosier volleyball squad hosts Ohio State in a 7 p.m. match. Following the match both the men’s and women’s team and then each squad will take the floor for their first official practice session of the season.

“Hoosier Hysteria is an excellent way to put our program in front of the Hoosier faithful and a fun night not only for our players, but for our coaches,” IU women’s basketball coach Felisha Legette-Jack said. “It also officially marks the beginning of the season and we are excited to get on the court and continue our pursuit of championships here at Indiana.”

A detailed schedule of events for the night will be released prior to the event. For ticket and event information, call 1-866-IUSPORTS or visit IUHoosiers.com.

“Volleyball is very excited to be partnering with basketball for Hoosier Hysteria once again, said IU women’s volleyball coach Sherry Dunbar. “Last year we played in front one of the largest crowds in the country for our match against Michigan State and this year we hope to play in front of a full Assembly Hall when we play Ohio State. We’re excited for the fans to see competitive Big Ten Volleyball and help us in our quest to beat the Buckeyes.”

Nothing against volleyball — it’s tolerable in small doses if Misty May-Treanor is involved — but am I the only one who thinks it’s ridiculous that fans have to show up at 5:30 and sit through a match before watching the team practice for the first time? Also, the idea of former players being included in the festivities is an excellent one. I’m not holding my breath for any of the Knight apologists to show up, but it’ll be nice to see guys like Calbert Cheaney at Assembly Hall.

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