The Sacred Heart University Department of Athletics has made attendance at its NCAA Division I home games during the 2008-09 seasons even more affordable for local families. In recognition of the tight budgets that many Connecticut residents are facing these days, children 14 and under will be admitted free to all games throughout the coming seasons.

The decision continues the Sacred Heart mission to make the University a comfortable and affordable place for families to go. Earlier this year, Sacred Heart University announced a decision to offer free tuition to full-time undergraduate students from Fairfield County high schools.

“We want area parents and family care providers to know that Sacred Heart athletic contests are affordable, safe and enjoyable places for families to gather and enjoy quality time with each other,” said SHU Associate Director for External Relations, Mark Adzigian. “In the past, we have hosted many youth groups, birthday parties and sponsored Take a Kid to the Game promotions. Now there’s no reason why every SHU game can’t be just like that.”

The football season opens at home on August 30 and a family of five can attend the game on Campus Field for as little as $16 – the price of two adult tickets. The Pioneers have six home games during the 2008 season.

A similar policy will hold for all basketball and hockey games during the 2008-09 season, as well as men’s lacrosse games in the spring of 2009. All general admission adult tickets for those sports will also be $8, with the exception of $10 for men’s basketball.

“The University is a very proud member of both the local and regional communities. By offering these programs, focusing positively on both academics and athletics, we are able to be an inclusive and contributing neighbor in our surrounding communities and show how important it is to enjoy family time together, especially during challenging economic times,” Adzigian concluded.

To check the home schedules for each team and order tickets online visit SacredHeartPioneers.com.