All proceeds from 10th annual event go the American Cancer Society & Walls Elementary School

KENT, Ohio – Performing for a large, rambunctious crowd is nothing new for Kent State student-athletes. However, this time their singing and dancing skills, not their athletic talents, will be on display for student body and the community.

Each of the 16 varsity athletic teams at Kent State University will be performing a choreographed lip sync and dance routine at the 10th annual Jock Jams fundraiser at 7:00 p.m. Tuesday, April 17th in the Cartwright Hall Auditorium on the Kent State main campus.  All proceeds from Jock Jams will be donated to the American Cancer Society and Walls Elementary School.  

The event showcases each athletic team as they compete before the public and a panel of judges for the annual Jock Jams trophy, which is awarded for the most creative and original performance. Last year, the event brought 1,500 students and members of the community together to raise nearly $4,000 for the American Cancer Society. Funds are raised through the $3.00 admission fee and general donations.

“Since Jock Jams inception in 2003, our student-athletes have raised more than $30,000 to help in the fight against cancer,” said Dr. Jennifer Kulics, senior associate athletic director. “This opportunity truly means a great deal to our student-athletes because of the losses our department has suffered to cancer and due to staff members currently fighting the battle.”

During the past year, KSU student-athletes have been traveling to Walls Elementary School in Kent, Ohio to spend time with the kindergarten through 5th grade students during their recess.  The program, “Fridays with the Flashes” has grown significantly throughout the year.  Last year, the student-athletes decided to expand their donations to include Walls Elementary School as well.  

Donations to the school from Jock Jams will go toward the purchase of new playground equipment.

Jock Jams, the annual fundraising event sponsored by Kent State Athletics, is organized by the Student-Athlete Advisory Committee (SAAC).  

“Jock Jams in one of our proudest accomplishments as athletes at Kent State,” said Carla Johl, member of the field hockey team and Jock Jams student emcee.  “Other universities around the country are trying to start an event like ours. They see how much we love getting the chance to compete against our fellow athletic teams, but most importantly that we really like to do what we can to raise money to help others in our community.”

“As student-athletes, we realize that we’re all really fortunate, and we look forward to raising money to help give something back to help people in need,” said Michael Heller, SAAC Vice-President and men’s track & field student-athlete. “All of our teams work really hard to prepare an entertaining routine for Jock Jams – this event means a lot to us, and we really appreciate that the community and student body come and support the cause.”

“Those who haven’t seen a previous Jock Jams event are in for quite a surprise,” said Angie Seabeck, director of student-athlete development.  “A lot of these kids are amazingly talented dancers and choreographers.  Some of them even sing rather than lip-sync.  Their costumes are always entertaining as well – the crowd just loves seeing them perform like this.”

The general public is encouraged to attend the event for a $3.00 donation. All proceeds from Jock Jams will benefit the American Cancer Society and Walls Elementary School. For directions or further information about the 10th annual Jock Jams, contact Angie Seabeck at 330-672-4733 or visit www.kentstatesports.com.