Valparaiso University and Family Express have joined together to form the Crusader Kids Club, an opportunity for children age 12 and under to attend home men's and women's basketball games at Valpo free of charge.

Any child can sign up today at www.familyexpress.com by clicking on the Crusader Kids Club icon in the middle of the page or by selecting ?What's New" at the top of the page. Kids who sign up will receive an e-mail confirmation voucher that can be redeemed at any Family Express location for a Crusader Kids Club Membership card and a voucher to attend any home basketball game. From that point on, members can show their card at Family Express before any upcoming home game and pick up tickets to see the Crusaders play again. Each voucher is good for admittance not only for the cardholder, but also for a friend (age 12 and under). All children must be accompanied by an adult.

?It's a wonderful opportunity for us to partner with Family Express and promote positive activities for children within our community," Head Men's Basketball Coach Homer Drew said, ?We value greatly our outstanding working relationship with Family Express and look forward to continuing to work closely with the youth of Northwest Indiana."

Each membership card has been signed by Coach Drew, and can be redeemed for up to 14 vouchers, each to see a different home game. Members will also receive an official club newsletter and information about valuable offers exclusively for Crusader Kids Club members. Kids who sign up will also receive a birthday card from Homer Drew and will have exclusive opportunities to take part in drawings, contests and promotions at Valpo men's and women's home games.

?All of us appreciate the support we continue to get from Family Express," Head Women's Basketball Coach Keith Freeman said, ?We look forward to fostering the relationship between area kids and our athletic program."

The Crusader men's basketball team returns to action Saturday at the Athletics-Recreation Center to take on Longwood. Families can sign up for the Crusader Kids Club at that game, scheduled to begin at 7:05 p.m. The Valpo women's team will be back in action Monday at 5:15 p.m. against Oral Roberts at the ARC. That game will be immediately followed with the men taking on ORU.