Torrington, WY (RELEASE) November 20th, 2023 — Eastern Wyoming College will be adding more to their home openers than just basketball. A free meal, free admission, and the addition of a new fundraising auction of two signed basketballs and one signed volleyball to raise money for the EWC Student Food Pantry await those attending the Lancers’ games on Friday, Dec. 1.

The Lady Lancers will take to the court at 5:30 p.m. and the men will play at 7:30 p.m. During halftime of each game a signed basketball will be auctioned off to raise money for the EWC Student Food Pantry. This year’s Lancer teams will sign the balls.“This fundraiser was the idea of Cannon Cook (a freshman at EWC) who wanted to give back to the community,” EWC President Jeffry Hawes said. “Cannon is a licensed auctioneer who will use his skills to benefit the college and our students by raising funds for the EWC Food Pantry.”The food pantry provides meals for students in need, at no cost to the students.“The State of Wyoming has been giving to me for 18 years, I want to give back,” Cook said. Cook is the game announcer for the volleyball and basketball games at EWC and his dream goal is to become a professional sports broadcaster.At his high school, he held fundraising auctions and offered to do the same for his college.The signed volleyball will be auctioned off in between the two games. Four elementary school basketball teams will also compete in two eighth minute games during each halftime. Added to the fun, the 75th Anniversary Committee will serve guests a free meal from 4:30-7:30 p.m. and admission to the games is free for everyone. Those attending are also encouraged to bring a donation for Waggin Tails.“The auction, which is something brand new at EWC games, is a great opportunity to get a piece of EWC history and support a great cause,” Hawes said. “So come out, enjoy a meal, take part in the auction, and have fun cheering on our Lancers.”