By Zach Dunkin
It’s being called “The Collision of the Coliseum” but a pair of basketball games between the girls and boys teams at rival Fishers and Hamilton Southeastern High Schools will be more than just a battle for the town’s bragging rights.
Presented by Forum Credit Union on Dec. 18 at the Indiana Farmers Coliseum at the Indiana State Fairgrounds, the double-header will also offer those attending the big games an opportunity to help fight the battle against cancer.
Representatives of the American Cancer Society’s Relay for Life fundraising event will be on site to raise cancer awareness. Volunteers in a Relay for Life event participate in teams with each team camping out overnight at a running track or course. Participants take turns walking or running around the track. Each team must have at least one member walking or running at all times.
“Relay for Life gives communities a chance to help raise money to support research and patient care programs,” said Relay for Life volunteer Andy Snow, who lost his grandfather to cancer eight years ago. “We are trying to get the word out and get this event out in front of various communities, and thought a large community event like this rivalry basketball game would be a good way to get in front of a new audience.
“Having the event in a major venue like the Coliseum only makes it better,” said Snow. “It’s a real bonus.”
In addition to raising awareness, event organizers are providing on-site computers on which spectators can pledge to raise money and get involved. There will be handouts available related to various American Cancer Society Programs. Monetary donations also will be accepted.
The girls kickoff the event at 6:30. Tipoff for the boys games is approximately 8 p.m. Both teams were unbeaten – HSE 4-0 and Fishers 3-0 – heading into last weekend’s contests.
Collision at the Coliseum
Where: Indiana Farmers Coliseum, Indiana State Fairgrounds, 1202 E. 38th St., Indianapolis
When: Dec. 18, 6:30 girls game, 8 p.m. boys game.
Tickets: $7 students, $10 adults advance at schools, $13 at the gate.
