The College of Science is partnering with the Notre Dame men’s rugby team and the Ara Parseghian Medical Research Foundation for the 2nd annual Parseghian Cup, a rugby game between the Fighting Irish and the University of Arizona Wildcats to raise money for Niemann-Pick Type C (NPC) disease.
NPC is a rare disease that causes cholesterol accumulation in the body's cells and leads to fatal neurodegenerative problems. Legendary Coach Ara Parseghian lost three of his grandchildren to NPC. There is still no cure, but recent research has led to promising treatments.
The Parseghian Cup will take place on April 5 at 7:00 p.m. at Stinson Rugby Field. The entire Notre Dame and Michiana community is invited to attend. Admission to the game is free and an anonymous donor has generously pledged to give $25 to NPC research for every person who attends the game, up to $25,000.
"We are so excited to be partnering with the rugby team and the Parseghian foundation to raise money for NPC research,' said Greg Crawford, dean of the College of Science. "It is our goal to make this the biggest game in Notre Dame rugby history and get 1,000 fans at the game so we can earn the entire $25,000."
Fans are encouraged to arrive early for a bleacher seat, or bring chairs (or a blanket) to surround the field and enjoy the game. There will also be free giveaways; free hotdogs, chips, and hot chocolate (while supplies last); and a chance to win an autographed Ara Parseghian rugby ball.