Owls play for a cure tonight

Under the lights of Lincoln Financial Field tonight, Temple students will attempt to “Pink Out” the stadium as part of the Owls for the Cure initiative at the Temple-Ohio game.

Scott Walcoff, assistant athletic director for marketing and promotions, said the fundraiser, which will benefit the Philadelphia affiliate of Susan G. Komen for the Cure, was led by coach Al Golden and his family.

“It’s really been an issue spearheaded by Al Golden and his wife Kelly,” Walcoff said. “This is something they are very passionate about.”

Walcoff said the athletics department has pledged to donate $1 for every student in attendance based on a 7,000 minimum. Ten percent of all single-game ticket sales will benefit the organization.
Temple alumnus Bill Cosby will be on hand for the coin toss.

Former Philadelphia Eagles wide receiver Vince Papale is also expected to attend. Papale is a Philadelphia native and colorectal cancer survivor.

Jackie Almo, a Temple cheerleader, said she is very excited for tonight’s game.

“It touches me personally because many generations of my family have had breast cancer,” said Almo, a senior education major. “I appreciate all of the students and fans showing up to support not only Temple football but also breast cancer research.”

She added she hopes a lot of students will come to the game. Almo said she thinks the turnout will be bigger than most games because of the promotion Temple athletics has done.

Temple students will receive pink pom-poms and pink T-shirts as they enter the stadium to help the “Pink Out” theme.

“Let’s represent Temple,” he said. “And let’s represent a great cause like breast cancer awareness.”

LeAnne Matlach can be reached at leannematlach@temple.edu.