LORETTO, Pa. (Oct. 13, 2008) -- October 17 signals the official beginning of the 2008-09 college basketball season around the country. Many programs will kick off the much-anticipated season with what is commonly referred to as Midnight Madness.

For the first time, Saint Francis University will hold its version of the annual tip-off party. The Red Flash will host the first annual Rim Rally beginning at 10:30 p.m. on Friday night, and the public is welcome, and encouraged, to attend, at DeGol Arena.

Rim Rally will feature the official introduction of the Saint Francis men's and women's basketball teams, as well as a DJ, the SFU Pep Band, contests, a video message from Hall of Fame broadcaster Dick Vitale, skill contests, and giveaways.

“We are hoping to make this a fun event that we hold every season,” said Jim Brazill, Saint Francis' Director of Marketing and Promotions. “The goal is to create an exciting atmosphere at our men's and women's basketball games throughout the year. This event is designed to build a unique connection between our players and coaches and Saint Francis students, faculty, staff and fans.”

The event is free to attend, and will immediately follow the first official practice sessions of the season for both teams.

There will be a basketball game between the student body Greeks and Saint Francis' faculty, as well as a contest that includes a potential $10,000 prize. Legendary college basketball broadcaster Dick Vitale will personally introduce the men's and women's basketball teams through a recorded video, and that will be followed by a 3-point shootout, a hot shot contest and a slam dunk contest.

The first 500 fans in the door will receive rally towels, and finger foods will be provided.

“The Saint Francis women's basketball team is looking forward to the first Rim Rally event at DeGol Arena,” said Red Flash women's basketball coach Susan Robinson Fruchtl, who is entering her second season in Loretto. “We always stress community involvement at Saint Francis, and this is a great opportunity to reach out to our fan base. We are a young and talented team this season, and we can't wait to get out on the floor.”

The Red Flash women's team will hold their first practice of the season, beginning at 5 p.m. on Friday, while the men's team will practice at 7 p.m.

“Our kids are excited to show our fans how much we appreciate their support,” said first-year men's basketball coach Don Friday. “Our programs here at Saint Francis are key parts of the SFU and surrounding communities. We want people to be proud of our programs. Friday night should be a terrific atmosphere for all those involved. There is a great deal of anticipation and excitement from our staff and players as we finally get a chance to get to work on the court.”