Grand Rapids Reporter

Ferris State University will host the annual Charity Heart-to-Heart, Hand-in-Hand Unified Special Olympics Benefit Game on Tuesday night at Jim Wink Arena. The event aims to raise funds for the local Special Olympics program and is described as a "Great Game for a Great Cause." Admission is free, with donations accepted at the door.

The game will be broadcast live on the Bulldog Sports Network via Ferris State University's official YouTube page, with coverage starting 15 minutes before tip-off at 7 p.m. (ET). Video coverage is provided by Ferris State Television in collaboration with FSU's Television and Digital Media Production Program.

FSU student-athletes will form two teams comprising both men's and women's players alongside local Special Olympics Area 5 athletes. Ferris State Basketball head coaches Andy Bronkema and Kurt Westendorp will coach these teams. This marks the 18th occurrence of the event in front of FSU fans and students.

Sponsored by the Sports Careers RSO and FSU's Sports Communication Program, all proceeds from the event will support Area 5 Special Olympians. The game provides an opportunity for Special Olympians to engage with Ferris State athletes, offering them a chance to be in the spotlight.

The event has been held since 2005, organized by FSU's Sports Careers registered student organization along with sports communication program students, in partnership with Area 5 basketball athletes and the Special Olympics College Club. It serves as a platform for people with intellectual disabilities to build self-confidence through sports.