4th annual game Friday to raise support for Institute’s breast cancer research
As part of its home opener Friday on new artificial turf, the Austin Packers football team, along with its parents and fans, will “pink out” Hass Stadium to raise awareness and support for The Hormel Institute’s world-class breast cancer research.

The Austin Packers’ 4th annual “Pink Out Night” football game will start at 7 p.m. against the Winona Winhawks in Austin, along with a pregame tailgate party from 5 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. on the stadium’s east side at the Wescott Field Complex. Pulled pork sandwiches, hamburgers and hot dogs, along with chips and beverages, will be available for purchase.

“Pink Out” is put on every year by the team’s Austin Packers Football Booster Club and has raised nearly $4,000 since 2012 for cutting-edge breast cancer research at The Hormel Institute. It’s one of the early events for the annual “Paint the Town Pink” initiative that earlier this year raised about $190,000 for the Institute’s breast cancer research.

“The booster club puts a lot of planning into this to make it a fun night for the fans and players,” said Jennie Esplan, one of the organizers. “Our players and coaches also have always been very supportive and excited to give back to such a great cause that our town is so passionate about.”

As part of Friday’s “pink” festivities, the booster club will offer face painting for kids for a freewill donation; a pink tractor for photo opportunities; a raffle for numerous items; and an auction for two autographed pictures donated by the Minnesota Vikings of Adrian Peterson and Cordarrelle Patterson.

A limited number of “Pink Out” shirts also will be available for $10 at the game.
Donations through “Pink Out” will go 100 percent into breast cancer research at the Institute. This year’s donation will count toward the 2016 “Paint the Town Pink” initiative in February.

Everyone attending Friday’s game is encouraged to wear pink to honor those who are battling breast cancer and those who lost their life to the devastating disease. It also will show support for The Hormel Institute’s breast cancer research and raise awareness about the importance of early detection to save lives.