Sept. 19, 2009

EVANSTON, Ill. -- The Wildcats' fall Scout Days kicked off over the weekend at the women's soccer game where scouts participated in a postgame clinic and autograph session with the coaches and student-athletes. There are three more scout days planned this fall with the next one scheduled for the football game vs. Minnesota this Saturday at 11 a.m.

"The support we see for these scout events from the troops in the community has been incredible through the years," said Tracie Hitz, associate athletic director for sales and marketing. "Being able to provide these fans with a unique experience that they will remember forever is special to us too."

Scout Day at Wildcat Football is Saturday, Sept. 26, at 11 a.m. when the 'Cats take on Minnesota in their first Big Ten Conference game of the season. All scouts and their families can purchase half-price end zone tickets--only $18 each--if you order online at NUsports.com or by phone at 847.491.CATS. Regular convenience fees apply, so to avoid those fees stop by the Wildcat Ticket Office at the Ryan Field (1501 Central Street) to purchase your tickets. The Wildcats have extended hours on Tuesdays and Thursdays (9 a.m.-7 p.m.) and are open 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday, Wednesday and Friday. Tickets must be purchased in advance, which means online and by phone by 1 pm on Sept. 25 or in person or by fax at 847-491-8818 by 5 p.m. on Sept. 25.

In addition to the deeply discounted ticket price, scouts will receive the official 2009 Scout Day Patch and a special welcome on the videoboard during the football game. To receive the scout day promo code, please e-mail wildcatmarketing@northwestern.edu before Sept. 25. Once you have your tickets, plan to arrive early to hang out in our pregame fan fest area, Wildcat Alley, which features games, music, face painting, Willie the Wildcat, the Goose Island Beer Garden and more! Wildcat Alley is free for everyone and is located just a few yards north of the stadium.

On Saturday, Oct. 17, the Northwestern Volleyball team hosts Minnesota at Welsh-Ryan Arena at 7 p.m. Scouts receive a special discounted admission rate of $2, a free 2009 Scout Day Patch, and the opportunity to join the women's volleyball team in their second annual Campout with the 'Cats. Price of participation in the campout is $10.

"Our daughter, Lindsey, had the best birthday party ever. She was so excited that she got to pass with her idol, Kate Nobilio," said scout mom Jen Allen who attended Campout with the 'Cats in 2008. "All of the girls in our group just had the best time. Kudos to all of you for making this a great experience for everyone!"

The Northwestern Women's Soccer team plays host to Michigan State at Lakeside Field on Sunday, Oct. 18, at 1 p.m. Admission to this match is free. Scouts in attendance will receive a free 2009 Scout Day Patch, and the first 200 fans will receive a free foam noodle. All scouts in attendance will have the opportunity to participate in a post game skills clinic with the coaches and student athletes of the Northwestern Women's Soccer team.

For more information regarding Wildcat Athletics and special events, please call 847-491-CATS or e-mail wildcatmarketing@northwestern.edu. For the latest updates on the 'Cats join us on Facebook or by follow us on Twitter.