Posted: July 18, 2012
The Phoenix Mercury is teaming up with the First Lady of Phoenix, Nicole Stanton and a coalition of anti-bullying agencies to host a Bullying Prevention Field Trip at US Airways Center on Thursday, September 13 from 10:30 a.m. 12 p.m.
The agencies, which include the Anti-Defamation League, 3TVs Rachels Challenge program, Severson Sisters and the Valley Youth Theatre, will present skits, internet safety tips and ways to identify the bully and the bullied to the fourth through eighth grade students in attendance in an effort to create safer school environments and reduce the rise of unwanted and aggressive behavior among school-aged children. Additionally, Stanton and Mercury forward Charde Houston will address the students on ways to eradicate bullying.
Its thrilling to see the Mercury involved in this anti-bullying effort, said First Lady of Phoenix, Nicole Stanton. Athletics have a history of teaching children personal responsibility, teamwork and sparking an internal drive to succeed. These characteristics are essential in teaching children about the tragedy of bullying and empowering them, even as by-standers to take a stand and make a difference.
The Mercurys mascot, Scorch and the Hip Hop Squad will also be on-hand to perform and host contests with the students. In addition to attending the program, students will receive two tickets to the Mercurys September 16, 21 or 23 games.
It is unfortunate that bullying has become such an issue for todays youth, said Mercury President & COO Amber Cox. The Mercury is proud and excited to be teaming up with Nicole and a number of great organizations to do whatever we can to put a stop to this growing trend of behavior. Bottom line, it just cant be tolerated.
The Mercury, one of the eight original WNBA clubs, is part of the longest running professional womens team sports league in the United States. The team will return home from the 2012 Olympic break on Sunday, August 19 for matchup vs. San Antonio Silver Stars at 3 p.m. Tickets are still available starting at $10. To purchase tickets, visit phoenixmercury.com or call 602-252-WNBA.