POTSDAM -- SUNY Potsdam’s women’s hockey team is looking to "Pack the Place" and set a new attendance record during the Saturday, Jan. 27 Bears' contest against the SUNY Cortland Red Dragons at the Maxcy Hall Ice Arena.

Admission is free for all. All girls and women are encouraged to wear their team jerseys in celebration of female participation in athletics. The contest will also celebrate the 32nd annual National Girls and Women in Sports Day (NGWSD). Faceoff for the game is set for 3 p.m.

The Bears' roster includes local talent, senior Taylor Marcellus of Waddington.

Coach Jay Green is encouraging the local community to come out and be part of the event.

"This group is working especially hard to continue to build our program and we're hoping to have as many young athletes attend as possible to give us a real home-ice advantage," Green said.

Following the game, Bears players will be available for pictures, autographs and to meet their young fans.

With the help of the SUNY Potsdam Student-Athlete Advisory Committee (SAAC), the women's hockey program is using this game as an opportunity to assist Bears' athletic trainer Alex Berking, who was diagnosed with brain cancer in November. As part of the effort, several promotions will be conducted during the game and between periods, including Chuck-a-Puck, a stick and jersey auction, a "Signs and Spirits" contest, with prizes for the team or group with the best signs and energy, and a $500 raffle drawing.

Bears Athletics sponsor Little Italy will provide chances to win free pizza prizes during the afternoon.

All proceeds raised during the game will be donated to Berking and her family to help with costs incurred from her treatment. To donate, go to: https://www.gofundme.com/alex-berking

For information about the day, contact Dustin Smith, Maxcy Hall Facilities Director at 315-267-2305 or smithdj@potsdam.edu.