KUTZTOWN, PA (April 5, 2010) – Joel Irwin loves taking a break from splattering ball carriers to protect the runners on the course during the annual Fools Run Race. Participating in the community is something that the Kutztown University football team always take pride in. The Golden Bear football team assisted with the 20th annual race, which was held on Saturday, March 27.

“It means a lot to help because we like to be involved in the community and this race is always for a good cause,” Irwin said. “We know the organizers and the race participants appreciate it. For us, it's a fun time and a nice change of pace.”

The Kutztown football team volunteers at this event annually. Members of the team serve as human barricades that protect the runners from vehicular traffic at street intersections and/or assist with the drink stations.

The race attracted 606 runners, and surpassed $150,000 in total scholarship money over its two-decade lifetime. In addition to the 5K and 10-mile events, the annual run added a half-mile children's fun run to its repertoire and a fun walk to enhance participation. The race also drew nearly 200 more runners than last year and drew trotters from five states.

Funds generated from the event support the Optimist Club of Kutztown and the Donald Peters Memorial Scholarship Fund. Through the event, the organization is able to provide scholarship assistance to qualified students from Kutztown Area, Brandywine Heights and Fleetwood area school districts. Since the Optimist Club began coordinating the event in 2006, it has given $20,000 through the scholarship fund and a $500 scholarship to the Kutztown University football team that is used for books.

Kutztown Athletic Trainer Jack Entriken, a member of the Optimist Club of Kutztown, played a prominent role in securing bodies with football head coach Raymond Monica.

“It's good for the football team to be involved in this event,” Entriken said. “Plus, it also allows the football players to see Athletic Trainers in a different light, which is good for our profession. Sometimes, we have to deliver injury news the players don't like to hear. But working together for a common cause is something that's special. I am always thankful for the participation of the football team.”

NOTES: The Kutztown University football team will hold its annual Spring Football game on Saturday April 17 at University Field beginning at 1 p.m.