By Edythe Bradley

The Albany State University Student-Athlete Advisory Committee will host its annual ASU Basketball Midnight Madness on Friday, Oct.14, at 10:30 p.m. at HPER Gymnasium on the ASU campus.

Saturday, Oct. 15, is the first official day of practice for teams governed by the National Collegiate Athletic Association, and ASU basketball fans will get a “sneak preview” of the 2011-2012 Lady Rams and Golden Rams basketball teams, says Stan McCormick SAAC advisor.

“The student-athletes in SAAC always take pleasure in doing special events for their fellow athletes, student body and community members. It gives us a great opportunity to introduce our stellar basketball players and coaches to the student body and the community,” McCormick said. “Midnight Madness was a huge success last year and everyone in attendance enjoyed themselves. We are looking to create an even greater event this year and generate a lot of excitement for ASU basketball.”

The college basketball event will feature contests involving the ASU men and women’s basketball teams. There will also be activities for the fans who attend the annual event. There will be some new twists to this year’s event, McCormick said.

“We want all ASU organizations- fraternities, sororities, SGA, SAAB, athletes, etc. – to wear their group paraphernalia to Midnight Madness,” McCormick said. “Our ASU Athletics Department slogan is ‘Bonded by the Blue and Gold.’ We want to extend these words to our entire ASU family and build a school spirit that is exciting for the programs and intimidating for opponents.” Fans are also asked to show their school spirit by dressing in blue and gold.

In addition to great basketball action, fans will be treated to performances by the ASU Cheerleaders, Platinum Divas dance line and other organizations.

The first 200 fans to enter Midnight Madness will be given free snacks and drinks. Fans are asked to bring a $1 donation for the Make-A-Wish Foundation or a canned good for SAAC’s upcoming Thanksgiving Food Drive.

The ASU Midnight Madness is free and open to the public.