Children in Whitewater will have the chance to hang out with UW-Whitewater student-athletes at a free Sports and Activites Day, sponsored by Sigma Alpha Lambda, UW-Whitewater Athletics and Working for Whitewater’s Wellness.

The event begins at the men’s basketball game at 3 p.m. on Saturday in the Kachel Gymnasium. Registration begins at 2 p.m.

Children who participate will run out of the locker room with the players. A Willie the Warhawk tattoo station will be set up during the game.

Children’s events and games, along with a dinner, will be held after the game from 5-7 p.m.

Working for Whitewater’s Wellness, is an organization that encourages children, students and the community to lead a healthy lifestyle by eating right, participating in exercise activities, and connecting with one another.

“Our main goal is to build the bridge between the community and the students of UW-Whitewater,” Rich Jazdzewski, executive director of University Health and Counseling Services, said. “We are trying to increase the number of people who will live a longer, healthier and happier life.”

Sigma Alpha Lambda president senior Jessica Stang said the members of the non-profit leadership and honors organization feel sports is an excellent way to reach children.

“Sports are something that our members are passionate about,” Stang said.

W3 and the UW-Whitewater’s Student-Athlete Advisory Committee will co-host a similar event, Kid’s Night Out, from 5-8 p.m. on Feb. 25. At the event, children can play games, watch movies and hang out with student athletes.  Costs for this event vary from $5-8.

Jazdzewski said providing a day where children can interact with UW-Whitewater student-athletes and understand the importance of staying active is one of importance.

“That’s one of W3’s main goals,” Jazdzewski said. “That’s what we’re all about.”