Cotts returns to ISU to help Special Olympics Illinois

[DEC. 5, 2005]  NORMAL -- There was more than an Illinois State men's basketball game going on Saturday at Redbird Arena, as former Redbird pitcher and current Chicago White Sox relief pitcher Neal Cotts returned to campus to help the Special Olympics Illinois. Cotts signed autographs after the ISU game versus Wisconsin-Green Bay, with all proceeds benefiting Special Olympics Illinois.

Approximately 450 fans waited in line patiently to have T-shirts, hats, baseballs and pictures signed by the Game 2 World Series winner. Cotts said he was more than happy to help out a great organization like the Special Olympics.

"The turnout was great, and I am just glad I could do something to help them out," said Cotts. "I helped with the Special Olympics in Chicago for their opening ceremonies and enjoyed the experience. This was a great opportunity for me to help again, and I'm glad we raised a lot of money today."

The event raised $2,255 dollars for Special Olympics Illinois. Special Olympics athletes were on hand to help collect money and get their chance to meet Cotts. Kyle Moore, the development manager for Special Olympics Illinois, Central Region, was thankful to the World Series champion for helping out the organization.

"It's unbelievable for someone of Neal's stature, who has done something that amazing, to want to help our athletes," said Moore. "There are nearly 20,000 athletes statewide that compete year-round for Special Olympics Illinois. All the money raised tonight will help fund their athletics abilities so our athletes don't have to pay to compete. You just can't ask for anything more."

Cotts and the defending World Series champion Chicago White Sox return to action April 2 with a 7 p.m. start against the Cleveland Indians. The game will be broadcast nationally on ESPN2 and will be the first game of the 2006 Major League Baseball season.

[Illinois State University news release from Mike Williams]

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