Feb. 24, 2010
Watch Field Hockey's Dance | Athlete Hour Video | THON Website | Twitter
UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. - The Penn State field hockey team was heavily involved in the 38th annual Penn State IFC/Panhellenic Dance Marathon last weekend as not only did the team dance as part of the pep rally, but graduating senior Jen Miller (North Caldwell, N.J.) was also one of the THON dancers who kept on their feet for 46 straight hours from Friday (Feb. 19) to Sunday (Feb. 21). Miller was one of four Penn State student-athletes to dance in the event that raised over $7.8 million for pediatric cancer.
"What THON means to me is making a difference in the life of a child," said Miller. I've been a finance captain for three years, and I've always wanted to dance. This year, I finally got the opportunity through SAAB (Student Athlete Advisory Board)."
THON began at 6 p.m. on Friday and ran all the way until 4 p.m. Sunday. During that time, the dancers interacted with patients and their families, performed numerous line dances and much more.
Miller joined her teammates on the stage for the Saturday evening pep rally. Numerous teams danced, and the top performance was chosen by crowd applause, an honor eventualy won by the football team.
The weekend went far beyond an athletic event as the Penn State community united for one cause.
"It really means the world to me to make a difference and put a smile on a kid's face this weekend," said Miller.
Check back soon for a complete video recap of the unforgettable weekend, including videos, interviews, photos and more!