SOUTH EUCLID, Ohio – The Notre Dame College Student Athlete Advisory Council (SAAC) hosted Tucker and his twin brother Kellen at the Falcons home football game against Concord on Saturday (Nov.9).

Tucker is a Make-A-Wish child who had his wish to go on a shopping spree granted in November last year. Tucker and his twin brother were VIIP's (Very Important Inspirational People) on Saturday as they got to experience Falcon game day with all access passes.

Their day began with a pizza tailgate party with Falcon student-athletes before meeting the Football team pregame in the locker room. Tucker then joined the Falcon football team as they ran out onto Mueller Field. Tucker and Kellen spent the rest of the day on the sideline, meeting cheerleaders, playing drums in the band and even visiting the press box to see how everything works on game day.

"It was an honor to host Tucker and his brother Kellen" said SAAC executive board member and volleyball student-athlete Magenta Tygret. "We tried to make the day a memorable experience for them and it was great to see their excitement throughout the day. For us it was a great opportunity to meet a child who has had a wish granted and to see his energy and positivity really motivates us to work hard in our fundraising efforts for Make-A-Wish this year".

As an NCAA Division II institution Notre Dame College raises money for Make-A-Wish annually as part of NCAA Division II's alliance with Make-A-Wish which has existed since 2003. During this time Division II has raised more than $3 million toward granting the wishes of children with life-threatening medical conditions. These wishes can serve as a game changer in children's fights against their illnesses, helping them feel better, and in some cases even get better.

Last year Notre Dame College SAAC raised $1,700 for Make-A-Wish as part of their "40 days of lent 40 days of service" program, a number which they hope to improve on this year. 

"We really value the relationship between NCAA Division II and Make-A-Wish and we want to do our best to be a part of it" said Director of Athletics Scott Swain. "Events such as this give our student-athletes a real opportunity to gain a perspective and see the value of their efforts. Tucker and Kellen were great and we look forward to them coming back again."

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