WEST PLAINS, Mo. – Everyone is invited to help Missouri State University-West Plains and the Grizzly Booster Club celebrate the new athletic seasons during the annual Grizzly Fall Picnic at 5 p.m. Friday, Sept. 9, in the West Plains Civic Center Exhibit Hall.

A complimentary barbecue meal will be served free of charge by Almost Famous Grille and BBQ as fans gather to kick off the 2016-17 volleyball and basketball campaigns. Grizzly Volleyball Head Coach Paula Wiedemann, Grizzly Basketball Head Coach Chris Popp and Grizzly Cheer Team Coach Nick Pruitt will be on hand to introduce the volleyball, basketball and cheer team members, respectively, and give previews of the upcoming seasons.

The event is being held prior to the 6:30 p.m. home volleyball match between the Grizzlies and Iowa Western Community College, Council Bluffs, Iowa, in the West Plains Civic Center arena. Organizers said admission to the match also will be free.

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, however. Memberships start at $500, which includes season tickets to the Grizzly Volleyball and Basketball home games and access to the booster club hospitality room.

“This year, we will induct a former Grizzly volleyball player into the Hall of Fame during the game,” said Bo Pace, booster club president. “The Grizzly Booster Club has always been proud to help athletes get an education and further their dreams. This will be a great opportunity to see the fruits of our labor.”

For more information about the picnic or the Grizzly Booster Club, contact Missouri State-West Plains development office at 417-255-7240. For more information about the Grizzly Volleyball and Basketball seasons, contact Dean of Student Services/Athletic Director Dr. Angela Totty at 417-255-7255.