COACH WENDY LARRY AND LADY MONARCHS CO-SPONSORING NDSS BUDDY WALK OCT. 5

Coach Wendy Larry and her Lady Monarchs are teaming up with the Tidewater Down Syndrome Association (TDSA) to present the first Buddy Walk on campus Saturday, Oct. 5.

The women's basketball team is co-sponsoring the event to promote awareness and inclusion of people with Down syndrome. The Buddy Walk, developed by the National Down Syndrome Society (NDSS) in 1995, has grown from 17 walks in its first year to more than 150 planned for 2002.

Participants can preregister by calling TDSA at 495-0206, or register from noon to 1 p.m. the day of the walk at the ODU Field House courtyard. The fee is $5 (there is no cost for children under age 6). All walkers will receive a T-shirt. Donations will also be accepted the day of the event.

The Buddy Walk, which begins at 1 p.m., will be a half-mile walk from the Field House to the Ted Constant Convocation Center. Participants will be treated to entertainment, cake and refreshments at the end of the walk.

Volunteers are also needed the day of the event to help set up and assist during the walk. To volunteer call the Tidewater Down Syndrome Association at 495-0206.