MBU Women’s Volleyball will gear up for a match next Wednesday, Sept. 30, to play more than a game. Our Spartan family will unite to raise awareness and support teammate Jen Brendel, junior exercise science major, who lost her father, Mike Brendel, earlier this year to thyroid cancer.

“I am very grateful to the MBU volleyball program as well as the whole MBU community for standing behind my family and me during this difficult time.” Jen Brendel said. “I am also grateful for the effort going in to earning money for thyroid cancer research in honor of my dad. My dad meant so much to my family, friends and me, and I am looking forward to playing this game in honor of him.”

Before the match against St. Louis College of Pharmacy, the team has planned several pre-game activities for current and past MBU students, faculty, staff and community to raise support for the cause.

The team is asking for a minimum $3 donation to attend. All donations collected from the evening will benefit thyroid cancer awareness. Here’s the lineup of events for the day:

Dunk Tank & Bake Sale – 10:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
A dunk booth will be placed outside of the Sports and Recreation Complex. Several MBU staff and coaches have already volunteered to take the plunge in the tank including: Head Football Coach Jason Burianek, Men’s Basketball Coach Matt Brock, Head Athletic Trainer Meredith Dill and more.

Baked goods and pretzels from Pretzel Boy’s will be available for $1 throughout the day.

Tailgate – 5:30 to 7:00 p.m.
There will be a dinner provided by parents of the Women’s Volleyball team outside of the SRC open to everyone in attendance.

MBU vs. STLCOP – 7:00 p.m.