March 10, 2011

Saint Baldrick's Photo Gallery

EVANSTON, Ill.-- When Northwestern stepped on the turf this morning for its third spring practice of the season, there was a marked difference in some of the Wildcats' appearances. Approximately 40 members of the Wildcat squad -- coaches, support staff and players -- had shaved their heads the night before in support of Saint Baldrick's, a foundation that raises money for pediatric cancer research.

"Everyone, unfortunately, in one way or another been impacted by cancer," Head coach Pat Fitzgerald said. "Kids are effected by cancer and they don't have a choice. We came across Saint Baldrick's because one of our family members here at Northwestern had a child that was in a battle with cancer. We researched it and we think it's a great cause to give back to. We try to raise funds and spread awareness of pediatric cancer."

This year, a record number of student-athletes went under the razor, including running back Mike Trumpy, cornerback Jeravin Matthews and quarterback Trevor Siemian as well as every member of the coaching staff. Additionally, Northwestern raised a record-number of funds for the organization.

This morning, the Wildcats conducted drills in their last day before donning full pads, including 7-on-7 situations as well as full-team scenarios. Northwestern's defense was on-point throughout the drills but Drew Moulton and Rashad Lawrence each registered a sparkling catch-and-run performance to provide giddy-up for the offense.

Post-practice interviews with both Pat Fitzgerald and running back Mike Trumpy are available by watching the embedded video above.

In Brief
Northwestern interspersed music throughout Trienens Hall for background sound, including jams such as "Kryptonite" and the third-quarter favorite "Hands In The Air" ... The Wildcats' next practice will be Saturday morning and will feature full-contact drills including the ever-popular Board Drill and interior line drills ... Northwestern will take the next two weeks off for finals and spring break before returning to the practice field on March 28.

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