Pre-game Reception at Madison Square Garden an Alumni Favorite

January 26, 2010

On Saturday, January 23, 2010 90 alumni and friends enjoyed a pre-game reception at Madison Square Garden prior to the St. John's University men's basketball game against the Wildcats of Villanova University.  The reception was held on the Garden's upper terrace, overlooking the main entrance to the arena, and was co-hosted by St. John's College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, St. John's College of Professional Studies and the Office of Alumni Relations.

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Guests enjoyed hamburgers, hot dogs and an extensive array of brunch specialties while getting into the spirit of one of the most exciting games of the Red Storm season.  "Today's event was a great way to get ready for such an exciting match-up," said Michael R. Bart '85CBA.  "St. John's played extremely well, and it was nice to be able to enjoy it with so many other alumni."

A highlight of the reception was the traditional raffle of prizes that included St, John's basketball memorabilia and sports apparel as well as complimentary tickets to future Red Storm games.  Following the reception the alumni brought their Red Storm pride into the arena to show their support as St. John's took on the nationally ranked BIG EAST powerhouse.

The event reminded many alumni of the excitement they felt going to basketball games during their days on campus.  "Today's event was terrific, and what a crowd here," remarked Dr. James M. Sheerin '65Ed.  "It reminds me of the old days when I was a student and used to come to the games.  The reception was great, with a good turnout and a lot of spirit."

Roy W. Breitenbach '88C, '91L saw the event as an opportunity to spend a day with his family while having a good time with other graduates and friends.  "We've had a lot of fun.  I came here with my two oldest kids and we had a great time at the reception beforehand, and we're enjoying the game a lot."  

Alumni were pleased to have an opportunity to enjoy a well-played basketball game while showing their support for the University that obviously continues to mean so much to them. "Receptions at the Garden are always a lot of fun and the games are always high energy," noted Jack Costoso '69Ed.  "It's good to have an increasing number of alumni come out to cheer on St. John's."