2nd Annual University City Classic

Philadelphia, PA – This Saturday, October 25th, 7 Division I men’s and women’s lacrosse programs will meet at the University of Pennsylvania to face-off in support of the HEADstrong Foundation™ for the 2nd Annual University City Classic (UCC™).  The event will be played in the shadows of the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania, where HF™ founder Nicholas Colleluori fought his relentless battle against non-Hodgins Lymphoma.  Proceeds from the event will directly support the Nicholas E. Colleluori Lymphoma Research Fund at the Abramson Cancer Center.  A $5.00 donation is strongly encouraged for admission.

The event will feature highly anticipated men’s matchups between Drexel University, Johns Hopkins University and the University of Pennsylvania.

This year a women’s component has been added to the event which will feature 4 teams. Penn women’s assistant coach Kerri Whitaker, who grew up with the Colleluori family has been instrumental in bringing this new component to life.  University of Albany, University of Delaware, University of Pennsylvania and Towson University will each play 4 games at Franklin Field during the day.

2nd Annual UCC Men’s Schedule – Teams will play 2 games (James “Ace” Adams Field)

11:00AM – Drexel University vs. University of Penn
12:45PM – HEADstrong Presentation
1:00PM – Drexel University vs. Johns Hopkins
3:00PM – Johns Hopkins vs. University of Penn

2nd Annual UCC Women’s Schedule – Teams will play 4 games (Franklin Field)

9:30AM – University of Penn vs. University of Delaware
10:25PM – HEADstrong Presentation
10:40AM – University of Albany vs. Towson University
11:40AM – University of Penn vs. Towson University
12:40PM – University of Delaware vs. University of Albany
1:40PM – University of Delaware vs. Towson University

The UCC™ is a day of philanthropy pairing the elements of fall collegiate scrimmages with a day of service.  Emphasis will be placed on providing an outlet for patients and their families while raising funds to support HF’s research effort.  Aside from the event the following day HF™ will serve meals and host an art therapy program on 3 floors of the Rhoads Pavilion of HUP.

“The University City Classic is one of our newest and most significant fundraising events.  With the hospital where our Nick faced his toughest opponent as the backdrop, we could not think of a more appropriate location for it.  We are very involved with HUP and it’s really special to share our love for the game with those that we serve.  This year we welcome an incredible lineup of teams and a new women’s component.  We wish to extend our sincere appreciation to all of the participating teams for giving further purpose to the fall lacrosse season and helping us to get aHEAD of cancer.” says Cheryl Colleluori, HF President and Nick’s Mom