MAF Introduces Men’s Lacrosse Endowment

MACON, Ga. – The Mercer Athletic Foundation is pleased to announce the creation of the 24 Fund, an endowed fund which will support and enhance operational needs for the men's lacrosse program. The 24 Fund is named in honor of John Michael Night, who signed a National Letter of Intent to continue his career at Mercer in 2016. John Michael Knight

"The men's lacrosse program at Mercer University just took another step forward in creating the 24 Fund," stated head coach Kyle Hannan. "This endowment adds another layer of financial support to the operation of the Bears lacrosse program. All endowment gifts will bring an everlasting value to the men's lacrosse program. I would like to thank the families who supported this project. Many Bears alumni, family, and friends will play a major part in growing the 24 Fund."

John Michael Night, a Winter Park, Fla. native, was a faceoff specialist who signed with Mercer to continue his dream of playing lacrosse. However, before he could enroll at Mercer, Night suffered a devastating brain stem stroke leaving him in what is medically referred to as Locked-In Syndrome (LIS). With Locked-In Syndrome the patient is fully aware with no mental impairment, but is unable to move his body or communicate verbally due to complete paralysis of nearly all voluntary muscles in the body except for the eyes.

Coach with JMN

Over the past few years, Night and his family have been visible on the sidelines and have become ardent supporters of Mercer Lacrosse. Within the program, Mercer's coaching staff speaks with John Michael to select a different player each game to wear number 24, and this tradition has quickly become one of the biggest honors a Mercer player can receive.

"We have aggressive goals for the 24 Fund," remarked Senior Associate Athletic Director Brian Gerrity. "Over the course of the next few years we hope to reach the $1,000,000 mark with this endowment. Men's lacrosse at Mercer is on an upward trajectory and this fund will provide the needed support to help the program get to the next level."

The initial fundraising goal will be to solicit $24/month from 100 donors to provide a baseline of income for the endowment. Strategic asks for major gifts will also enhance the fund. To make a gift in support of the 24 Fund or to sign-up for monthly support at the $24 level, please contact Brian Gerrity at 478-301-4003 or email maf@mercer.edu.

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