Just got this release. Seems like a good idea. Division II schools have really put an emphasis on this type of community involvement over the past few years and this fits in very well.

The University of New Haven Department of Athletics and the Southern Connecticut State University Department of Athletics are excited to announce a one-of-a-kind partnership titled ‘Unity thru Hoops.’ The event will focus on promoting diversity and fostering an environment of inclusion around the greater New Haven community.


The events will revolve around the basketball teams’ Northeast-10 Conference doubleheader on Saturday, February 5 at 1 p.m. (women’s) and 3:30 p.m. (men’s). In the weeks leading up to the doubleheader, New Haven and Southern Connecticut State student-athletes will visit local schools to introduce students to the ‘Unity thru Hoops’ logo, which emphasizes categories that contribute to diversity; such as race, gender, language, religious beliefs, ability, sexual orientation, age and ethnicity.

Clubs and organizations from both Universities with similar goals are also planning to highlight the diversity of interests and multi-cultural groups on both campuses. On game day, these student organizations will partner and set up information tables in the lobby of Charger Gymnasium to share ideas about unity in a diverse population. Student groups from both institutions will also compete in a variety of dance contests between the women’s and men’s games. A reception for the student organizations, faculty, administrators and special guests will be held following the games.

The 2011 ‘Unity thru Hoops’ partnership begins the annual event which will alternate between the UNH and SCSU campuses every year. The event exemplifies goal five of the NCAA Division II Strategic Plan which states to partner and build collaborative relationships with other organizations to support and enhance the diversity of student-athletes, administrators and coaches at the local, conference and national levels.