In partnership with the Ohio Valley Conference (OVC), Western Illinois University Athletics is proud to announce the Hoops for Heroes Initiative. The idea for this initiative came from the OVC Student-Athlete Advisory Committee (SAAC) to have a league-wide community service project tied to the OVC Basketball Championship. Each OVC institution works in its community to raise funds to send a local military veteran to the OVC basketball championship in Evansville, IN, in March 2024.
 
On Saturday, February 10, WIU Athletics will host "Hotcakes for Heroes" from 9:00 am to 11:00 am in the East Gym of Western Hall. This breakfast will raise funds to send a deserving veteran from the Greater Macomb Area to the OVC Basketball Championship Tournament. Attendees will have the opportunity to enjoy a pancake breakfast while contributing to a meaningful cause.

Details of the Event:

What: Hotcakes for Heroes Fundraiser
When: February 10, 9:00 am – 11:00 am
Prior to Men's Basketball vs. UT Martin at 11:00 am
Women's Basketball vs. UT Martin to follow at 2:00 pm
Where: East Arena of Western Hall 
Tickets: $10 each for pancakes and a ticket to the games; $5 each for just pancakes  

Supplies needed for this event are being donated by Sodexo. Therefore, all proceeds will go directly towards covering the expenses for a local veteran to attend the OVC Tournament, an experience that promises not only thrilling basketball action but also a chance to be honored for their service.

"We are thrilled to host the 'Hotcakes for Heroes' fundraiser, a unique opportunity for our community to come together and show gratitude to the brave men and women who have served our nation," said Director of Athletics Paul A. Bubb. "WIU is a military-friendly institution that proudly and exclusively dons the Leatherneck nickname, and this event reflects our continued commitment to supporting veterans. We invite everyone to join us as we rally behind our heroes and send a local veteran to the OVC Tournament."

Attendees can purchase tickets for the "Hotcakes for Heroes" fundraiser at the door or in advance by clicking this link. Donations are also welcomed for those who may be unable to attend but wish to contribute to this worthy cause.

For more information, please visit goleathernecks.com or contact WIU Athletics at 309-298-1190.