March 15, 2007

DeKALB, Ill. - The Huskie Athletic Scholarship Fund (HASF), the primary direct support organization for Northern Illinois Athletics, has embarked on its first "Spring Drive" and NIU supporters have responded in impressive fashion in the annual campaign's opening weeks.

The HASF is committed to increasing the resources it provides Northern Illinois' 17-sports programs and 486 student-athletes, and the initial days of the annual Spring Renewal and Membership Drive indicate that 2007 will be a record-breaking year. After the first month, the HASF has already reached nearly 35 percent of the previous year's membership, which includes a nearly 10 percent boost in new members.

The Huskie Athletic Scholarship Fund went to a universal anniversary date of May 1 beginning this year and in order to utilize their membership benefits during the upcoming football season, HASF members are urged to renew or join prior to the May 1 deadline. This season, important benefits for HASF members include access to priority seating for the football game vs. Iowa at Soldier Field on September 1, 2007, as well as availability of tickets for road contests at Wisconsin and Navy.

To join the Huskie Athletic Scholarship Fund, call 815-753-1923 or donate on-line. Click here and go to "Donate Online" button. If you have any questions regarding the HASF, or any of the events and benefits offered exclusively to donors this spring and summer, contact the HASF office at 815-753-1923.

There is no greater testament to the loyalty of Huskie fans and supporters than the expansive growth of the HASF. The Huskies thank you for your support.

-- NIU --