CHESTER, Pa. – The Widener University men's basketball team will open its 2021-22 season Friday night when it hosts the 12th Annual Tip-Off Tournament For Autism Awareness at the Schwartz Center.  

The first game of the tournament, between Arcadia and Stockton, is set to start at 6 p.m. on Friday, while the Pride are slated to tip off at 8 p.m. against Neumann. The consolation game will take place on Saturday at 2 p.m., while a champion will be crowned at a 4 p.m. game. 

The coaches and teams are ready to play, especially Widener because it played an abbreviated season in 2020-21 in which it could not host this tournament due to the COVID-19 pandemic. However, they are extremely excited to bring back this event because it has a bigger meaning than just playing and winning basketball games. 

"Our annual Tip-off tournament for Autism Awareness weekend has become a staple for our program over the past ten plus years," Widener head coach Chris Carideo said. "This tournament started when a good friend of mine told me that his son, Robbie, had Autism. After that conversation, we just wanted to find a way to alleviate some of the financial burden for the Hummel family so Robbie could get the care he deserves. With the love from his parents and family, Robbie is doing amazing!  My coaching staff, players, and athletic department, along with parents, friends and family are all extremely supportive of this event! Although we are excited to play games this weekend, we understand that this cause is much bigger than basketball!" 
 
Over the past 11 years, the tournament has raised over $15,000 for Robbie and his family. The 2021-22 Widener Tip-Off Tournament for Autism Awareness will look to continue the fundraising efforts and increase contributions to the Hummel family. All proceeds from the tournament benefit the Robbie Hummel Special Needs Trust. 
 
According to Autism Speaks, the disorder affects one in 54 children and one in 34 boys. Boys are nearly four times more likely than girls to have autism. On average, autism costs a family $60,000 a year. 

"We do our best to bring awareness to Autism and the effects it can have on children and their families," Carideo said. "There are resources out there for families affected by Autism, our goal is help bring awareness to that help!" 
  
For more information about autism, visit the Autism Speaks website by clicking the link in the info box.

TICKET INFORMATION (CASH ONLY) - PURCHASED ONLY ON-SITE
Adults — $5
Seniors — $3
Non-Widener Students with ID — $2
Widener students with ID — Free
Children under 12 — Free

All Ticket Sales will be Donated for Autism Awareness