RUSTON – In partnership with Coaching for Literacy, the Louisiana Tech men's basketball team will host the annual #Fight4Literacy game presented by International Paper on Thursday, Jan. 27 versus Rice.
 
In Louisiana, more than 45 percent of fourth-grade students cannot read at a basic level.  Just 25 percent are considered proficient.  LA Tech hopes to change those statistics in North Louisiana through its seventh straight year of teaming up to promote childhood reading.
 
"Our basketball team has always been at the forefront of improving education in North Louisiana, as evidenced by our part in founding Dogs With A Cause alongside the College of Education Clinical Residency Center in 2016," said head coach Eric Konkol.  "Hosting a #Fight4Literacy game is a natural fit, a wonderful way to keep our fans involved and an opportunity for us to support our community's literacy needs.  With 100 percent of funds staying local, it is a win-win."
 
During the Jan. 27 game against Rice inside the Thomas Assembly Center, coach Konkol and his staff will wear green lapel pins and wristbands to raise awareness for literacy. 
 
Fans are encouraged to donate books at the game.  Book donations will be taken at both main entrances of the arena.  Fans are also invited to make a donation in support of local programs by going HERE. 
 
One hundred percent of funds generated at the game will stay in North Louisiana through a grant partnership with Dogs With A Cause. 


 
Since 2013, Coaching for Literacy has granted more than $730,000 to local literacy partners to fund initiatives like mentoring, after-school programs and providing age-appropriate books for children.
 
"#Fight4Literacy presented by International Paper is truly a movement," said Carleen O'Reilly, executive director of Coaching for Literacy.  "We know how crucial it is for young kids to learn to read, and active, committed partners like Louisiana Tech and Dogs With A Cause are an important piece of that puzzle.  But anyone can fight for literacy, and this partnership really helps bring the issue front and center in the North Louisiana community and among Louisiana Tech basketball fans.  We hope it creates a long-term impact."
 
A final fundraising total will be announced at the end of the season, when grants will be delivered to Coaching for Literacy's local partners.  For more information about Coaching for Literacy or the #Fight4Literacy, visit www.coachingforliteracy.org.