You Can Rappel for Charity at Penn State's Beaver Stadium This Spring
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Last summer, Penn State football fans hit golf balls at Beaver Stadium. This spring, they'll be able to rappel 110 feet during a unique fundraising event for the United Way.
Penn State will host Over the Edge on May 19 at Beaver Stadium, which gives thrillseekers a chance to rappel the west side of the nation's second-largest venue. Penn State calls this the first event of its kind at Beaver Stadium, which is holding more such offseason opportunities.
Last summer Beaver Stadium hosted the Topgolf Live Stadium Tour, during which fans hit golf balls to field targets from the deck above the South end zone. For its rappelling event, Penn State is partnering with Over the Edge, which conducts fundraising and team-building events through what it calls urban rappelling.
On its website, Over the Edge says that its average event raises more than $100,000. Penn State will conduct the fundraiser on behalf of the United Way.
According to a news release, the first 107 people who meet a minimum fundraising threshold of $1,500 will be eligible to rappel Beaver Stadium. Those interested can register at the event's site.
RELATED: Penn State plans four-year, $700 million renovation of Beaver Stadium
"Penn State is a proud and steadfast supporter of the Centre County United Way, which supports our neighbors in need through responsive, individualized services at the intersections of health, education and financial stability," Penn State President Neeli Bendapudi said in a statement.
"This event represents months of collaboration between Penn State and the United Way, and we are excited to see it become a reality. As a land-grant university committed to improving lives in our communities and our commonwealth, we are proud to continue to partner with the United Way to make a positive impact here in Centre County."
Penn State recently announced plans for a four-year, $700 million renovation of Beaver Stadium that will completely change the facility's west side. Penn State Athletic Director Patrick Kraft said that the stadium's west side will be completely rebuilt, adding premium amenities such as suites and chairback seats, and will become the heart of the facility. Kraft also said that Penn State has no plans to change Beaver Stadium's name through a naming rights dea.
Beaver Stadium, which currently seats 106,572 fans, will continue to have a capacity above 100,000 when the renovation is complete in 2027, Kraft said. Penn State's Board of Trustees recently approved a $70 million first phase of renovations that will begin in 2023 with the design process.
"Penn State has some of the most dedicated and loyal fans in the world and they deserve a facility that has upgraded amenities and improved circulation around the facility to enhance the fan experience," Penn State President Neeli Bendapudi said. "It is my commitment that we will do what we must to preserve one of our most iconic spaces in the most economical way possible."
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