Oct. 12, 2007

Fairfax, Va (October 12, 2007)--George Mason University's Intercollegiate Athletics will present its annual rite of fall, Mason Madness tonight, Friday, Oct. 12, beginning at 9:30 p.m. at the Patriot Center. The doors will open at 9:00 p.m. and the event is FREE and open to the public.

Mason Madness is celebrating its 11th anniversary of the event on the Fairfax campus. Since 1970, when former Maryland coach Lefty Driesell came up with the idea to start basketball practice at the earliest time NCAA regulations allowed, Midnight Madness evolved at schools across the country. An NCAA rules change means teams can begin practicing before midnight.

Traditionally, fans are entertained with competitions as well as performances by select entertainment groups. At 9:00 p.m. as fans enter the Patriot Center, Sam Trocki will present an acoustical guitar performance. The Amazing Christopher will perform his world renowned rendition of YMCA and more! The popular campus group UrbanKnowology will inspire the crowd with their annual act.

The Patriots cheerleaders, Masonettes and Doc Nix and the Green Machine will provide an atmosphere that will energize the crowd as George Mason ushers in the start of the new season. Patriots' players and coaches from the men's and women's teams will be introduced to their fans for the first time this season, followed by short scrimmages and a three-point shooting contest.

One Mason student will win a trip for two to Orlando to cheer on the Patriots at the Old Spice Classic Men's Basketball Tournament, November 22-25. All you need to enter is a valid Mason student ID and proof that you're a TRUE PATRIOT! Winner will be chosen and announced during Mason Madness. Prior to doors opening, a pre-Mason Madness gathering will take place beginning at 7:30 p.m. at the Patriot Center's south entrance. There will be music, the bookstore will be selling Mason gear and light refreshments will be served.