Two lucky fans will be taking home a brand new Smart television from Maxcy Hall on Friday, January 27, as SUNY Potsdam holds its 14th annual "Bear Pride Night." Once again, through the combined efforts of the Offices of Alumni Relations, Residence Life and the Bears' Athletic Department, the college invites area alumni, fans and students to cheer on the Bears and take part in a number of fun activities.

The evening's game schedule tips off in Jerry Welsh Gymnasium as Coach Jim Bechtel's men's basketball squad battles conference rival SUNY New Paltz at 5:30 p.m. The Bears women's basketball team, led by Coach Brittany Cohen, follows up, also taking on the Hawks at 7:30 p.m. Sandwiched between these games, a few steps away in the Maxcy Hall Ice Arena, Coach Chris Bernard's Bear skaters face-off at 7 p.m. against SUNY Fredonia.

Potsdam Sears, SUBWAY and Great Northern Printing will team up with the Bears in sponsoring what has become one of the premier winter sports evenings in the North Country. During the women's basketball halftime and at the conclusion of the men's hockey game, spectators will face off in the "Sears Shootout", with winners going home with a new SMART television.
 
"For years, Phil Vivlamore and Sears have stepped up to provide a signature event for the night that will generate a lot of excitement," said Bill Mitchell, Bears' Assistant Athletic Director.

Numerous other promotions and giveaways will occur throughout the evening. Subway will be providing coupons for free subs as well as a chance to win a 6' foot party sub for Super Bowl Sunday. "Bear Pride" t-shirts, compliments of Great Northern Printing, will be shot from a t-shirt launcher during the games. Also, the student hip-hop dance squad "Team NV" will be on hand to display their skills as part of an entertaining night for Bear fans.

Admission is free for all alumni and their families by visiting the Alumni Relations table in the Maxcy Hall lobby. Bear alums can also reconnect with friends in the hospitality room during the games as well.  Admission also is free for all area high school students who wear their school colors.

For more information about Bear Pride Night, contact Bill Mitchell, assistant athletic director, at (315) 267-2307 or mitchewj@potsdam.edu.