RUSSELLVILLE, Ark. — When the Southern Arkansas Lady Muleriders come to town Thursday, continued possession of first place won't be the only good cause for which the Arkansas Tech Golden Suns volleyball team will be playing. The Golden Suns will also be wearing special pink jerseys to be auctioned off to benefit the Make-A-Wish Foundation.

"We are excited about the opportunity to help the Make-A-Wish Foundation," said Golden Suns head coach Kristy Bayer. "NCAA Division II athletics programs have been a strong supporter of this organization, and we are looking forward to being a part of the wish experience."

"We are very appreciative of Dr. Owen Kelly sponsoring our jerseys again this year."

Fans wishing to place a bid on a jersey can do so by calling 479-968-0337 beginning at 5:30 p.m. on Thursday, Oct. 9, with the auction running through the intermission after the second set of Thursday's match. The minimum bid is $20, and cash, credit card, and checks are accepted.

The giveaway is in conjunction with the Golden Suns' match with Southern Arkansas. Tech (15-5, 7-1 Great American Conference) will go for its eighth consecutive win and look to solidify its hold on first place in the GAC. The Golden Suns are coming off a tough 3-2 win over Arkansas-Monticello on Tuesday, and will return home for just one contest before heading back on the road for three more matches beginning next week.

"SAU is a very strong team," said Bayer. "It is going to be a good match up and some exciting GAC volleyball."

Southern Arkansas (8-12, 5-3 GAC) opened the season with a 10-match losing streak, playing some of the top teams in the nation during that stretch. However, since a sweep at the hands of Harding on Sept. 18, the Lady Muleriders have gone 8-2, and enter Thursday's match on a five-match winning streak.

The match is set for a 6 p.m. start. Admission to Tech volleyball matches is free.