(January 21, 2008)
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Matt Giaquinto wore a purple cape and top hat to last year's Big Purple Growl. (Photo by Fred Doyle) |
It's the annual Big Purple Growl and Ferocious Feast, returning Feb. 2 to the University's SEFCU Arena, when the Great Danes take on the Stony Brook Seawolves in a men's-women's basketball doubleheader.
The 11-year-old growl is now one of the most exciting and anticipated sports events in the Capital Region, with attendance more than doubling, from 2,000 in its first two years to capacity crowds of more than 4,500 in 2006 and 2007.
UAlbany senior Allison Leventhal said the Big Purple Growl "gives students a chance to come together and get excited about UAlbany. Students show off their purple and gold attire and really let the opposing team know that UAlbany is a force to be reckoned with."
The Big Purple Growl is a big hit with alumni as well. Alumna Christine Bouchard, '73, '87, interim vice president for Student Success, said, "The BPG is a chance for students and alumni to connect over some great Division I basketball. Given the success of the last two years and our trips to the NCAA, it has heightened the excitement and has even made it difficult to obtain tickets. It is so awesome to see an event grow the way the growl has - I've been attending from the very first year and I wouldn't miss it."
The women's game starts at 4:30 p.m.; the men's, at 7 p.m. Those attending the Ferocious Feast should register at the Big Purple Growl and Ferocious Feast Web site. To purchase tickets for the men's and/or women's basketball games only, please call (518) 442-4683 or visit the box office.
Related Links:
Big Purple Growl and Ferocious Feast
Great Danes Athletics
Alumni Association
Student Success
