Sacred Heart University Basketball Partnering with Autism Speaks

Press Release

Sacred Heart University, in conjunction with the Fairfield/Westchester Chapter of Autism Speaks, will host an event benefitting Autism Speaks at its women’s and men’s basketball doubleheader on January 10. The Pioneers host Saint Francis U that afternoon, with the women playing at 1 p.m. and the men playing at 3:30 p.m.

“We are excited about partnering with Autism Speaks on this basketball doubleheader,” said Sacred Heart Associate Director of Athletics Chris O’Connor. “The CDC estimates that 1 in 68 children has been identified with autism spectrum disorder. It is our hope that this event will help inspire our fans to become part of the wonderful work that Autism Speaks, and its volunteers, do on a daily basis.”

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Fans attending the game will be able to learn more about autism spectrum disorder as well as the mission of Autism Speaks at an information table located in the lobby of the Pitt Center. Donations for Autism Speaks will also be accepted, with items such as pins, water bottles and hats being provided as a thank you from Autism Speaks. In addition, local merchants, including; The New York Mets, The Field House, Fairfield Ice Academy, Gymnastics and Cheer Academy and GCA Parkour, Carabiner’s Indoor Climbing, Benefit Cosmetics, Chip’s, Orange Theory Fitness, Brick & Wood and Colony Grill; have donated items for fans in attendance that support Autism Speaks that day, with a contribution, to win.

Those in attendance will also notice that the atmosphere of the game will be slightly quieter than a normal SHU basketball game. The volume of public address announcements and music played throughout the game will be turned down to make the environment more hospitable for any fans with sensory sensitivities. There will also be a quiet area in the Pitt Center made available to those fans who may need to take advantage.

Tickets to the doubleheader are available online, by clicking here or by calling the Sacred Heart Ticket office at 203 396-TIXX (8499). Courtside seats are $12.00 for the doubleheader, while general admission adult tickets are $10.00 and youth and senior tickets are $5.00.

Photo courtesy of SacredHeartPioneers.com

About Autism Speaks

Autism Speaks is the world’s leading autism science and advocacy organization. It is dedicated to funding research into the causes, prevention, treatments and a cure for autism; increasing awareness of autism spectrum disorders; and advocating for the needs of individuals with autism and their families. Autism Speaks was founded in February 2005 by Suzanne and Bob Wright, the grandparents of a child with autism. Mr. Wright is the former vice chairman of General Electric and chief executive officer of NBC and NBC Universal. Since its inception, Autism Speaks has committed more than $500 million to its mission, the majority in science and medical research. Each year Walk Now for Autism Speaks events are held in more than 100 cities across North America. On the global front, Autism Speaks has established partnerships in more than 40 countries on five continents to foster international research, services and awareness. To learn more about Autism Speaks, please visit AutismSpeaks.org.