University of Albany Prepares for 11th Annual Big Purple Growl on Saturday, Feb. 2

Courtesy: UAlbany Sports Information

Albany, N.Y. – The 11th annual Big Purple Growl and Ferocious Feast is set for Saturday, Feb. 2 on the University at Albany campus. The University’s Winter Homecoming features a men’s and women’s basketball doubleheader with America East Conference opponent Stony Brook University at SEFCU Arena. The women’s game begins at 4:30 p.m., while the men follow at 7:00 p.m.

For ticket information, contact the UAlbany Athletic Ticket Office, at 518-442-4683. The Big Purple Growl is well on its way to becoming a sold-out event for the third consecutive year. There are currently 200 reserved seats available for general sale. The BPG event has averaged 3,555 fans in its 10-year history.

“The Big Purple Growl is an opportunity for students, alumni and fans to stay connected to the University at Albany and its athletic program,” UAlbany Vice President and Director of Athletics Lee McElroy said. “It has been a pleasure to see the event grow and at the same time watch the excitement it brings to the campus environment.”

Big Purple Growl T-shirts, courtesy of Verizon Wireless, will be distributed to the first 750 fans at the doubleheader. Students will participate in the CDTA Shot for Tuition, with the winner receiving an award that is equivalent to one semester’s in-state tuition. Alumni will also shoot for prizes. Residential Life will sponsor a housing lottery for five lucky UAlbany students during halftime of the men’s game. In addition, one fan, chosen in a random drawing, will play for two other fans in the SEFCU Money Machine. UAlbany’s pep band, dance team and cheerleaders will perform. The Earth Tones, the school’s men’s a capella group, and women’s basketball team captain TaNika Thrower are scheduled to sing the National Anthem prior to each game.

The Ferocious Feast will be held in University Gymnasium, adjacent to SEFCU Arena, from 5:00-7:00 p.m. The Feast is completely sold out. The expanded menu includes, soy whiskey chicken, barbecue pulled pork, macaroni and cheese and more. The Puppy Pound for younger children highlights a list of entertainment options.