EVANSVILLE, Ind. – The University of Evansville Athletics Department has announced that it will hold a Patriot Day promotion for the Purple Aces' September 11 men's soccer game against nationally-ranked Saint Louis at 7 p.m. 
 
Current and retired military personnel, as well as local police, fire and EMT personnel will receive free admission to the match and discounted tickets will be available for their family members.  Vouchers will be dispersed to local military groups and the discount can be received at the gates at Arad McCutchan Stadium by presenting a valid ID.
 
Prior to the game, a moment of silence will be held in remembrance of the events that occurred on September 11, 2001 and a color guard will present the colors for the national anthem.
 
In conjunction with the Patriot Day event, the general public will also have an opportunity to receive $3 discounted tickets by donating a soccer ball to the Kick for Nick Foundation. 
 
The Kick for Nick Foundation is an organization that was created in honor of Private Nicholas Madaras to spread Nick's love of soccer and his dedication to the children of Iraq by sending soccer balls to soldiers in the field so they can distribute them personally and directly to the children of Iraq. 
 
While home on leave from Iraq in 2006, Nick rounded up as many soccer balls as possible to bring back to the children near his post.  Being a passionate soccer player, he wanted to give the balls to the children as a gesture of good will.  Unfortunately, Nick was killed by an IED on September 6, 2006 and was never able to distribute the balls himself.  Instead, the Kick for Nick Foundation has taken up a crusade on his behalf to fulfill his dream.
 
More information on the Kick for Nick Foundation can be found at the foundation's website:  www.kickfornick.org