Mark your calendars now for Sept. 8! It’s going to be a big day for Grizzly Athletics at Missouri State University-West Plains, and you won’t want to miss it!

Activities begin at 5 p.m. with the annual Grizzly Booster Club fall picnic at the West Plains Civic Center Exhibit Hall. Everyone is invited to attend this official start to the 2018-19 Grizzly Athletics season, organizers said.

A complimentary meal will be served free of charge to the first 500 attendees. Grizzly Basketball Head Coach Chris Popp and Grizzly Cheer Team Coach Jason Harrill will be on hand to introduce the basketball and cheer team members, respectively, and give previews of the upcoming seasons.

Jones, Hendrickson To Join Hall of Fame

Immediately following the picnic at 6:30 p.m., two former members of the Grizzly Volleyball team, Felicia Jones (2003-04) and Courtney Hendrickson (2004-05), will be inducted to the Grizzly Hall of Fame. Hendrickson also served as assistant coach of the volleyball team during the 2009 and 2010 seasons.

Volleyball Team Hosts Season Home Opener

After the ceremony, the Grizzly Volleyball team will host its season home opener against Iowa Western Community College of Council Bluffs in the civic center arena. Organizers said admission to the game also will be free.

Join the Grizzly Booster Club

All Grizzly fans, not just Grizzly Booster Club members, are encouraged to attend the picnic and enjoy the festivities, organizers stress. Fans who would like to join the booster club may do so that evening. Memberships start at $500, which includes season tickets to the Grizzly Volleyball and Basketball home games and access to the booster club hospitality room.

The Grizzly Booster Club was formed in 1993 to provide community encouragement and support for the Missouri State University-West Plains Grizzly athletic teams. Funds raised provide for educational scholarships and other vital program needs. Without the work, commitment, and support of the Grizzly Booster club, Grizzly Athletics would not be possible, university officials said.

For more information about the picnic, the Grizzly Booster Club or the Grizzly Volleyball and Basketball seasons, contact Dean of Student Services/Athletic Director Dr. Angela Totty at 417-255-7255.

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