Dec. 21, 2007

COLLEGE PARK, Md. - The Maryland women's basketball team collected over 1,000 new and unwrapped toys at the "World's Largest Baby Shower," which celebrated head coach Brenda Frese's pregnancy. The toys were donated to the Washington, D.C., area U.S. Marine Toys for Toys program.

"We feel proud our fans embraced this event in order to give back to the community," said Frese, who is expecting twins. "We would like to thank them for taking the time to, not only support our team, but also for giving to this great cause. It is a wonderful feeling to know these gifts will bring smiles to many children in the area."

The "World's Largest Baby Shower" was held on Friday, Nov. 30 at the Terps' game versus Ohio State for the inaugural Big Ten/ACC Challenge. U.S. Marine Corps representatives collected 1,200 donations on the Comcast Center concourse from fans, who were encouraged to bring a donation, prior to the start of the game.

""Thank you from the U.S. Marines and staff and Washington, D.C. Toys for Tots," said Master Sgt. Timothy J. Butler, D.C. Toys for Tots Coordinator. "The donations will go a long way for the needy families in our community. It's all about making a difference."

The mission of the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve Toys for Tots Program is to collect new, unwrapped toys during October, November and December each year, and distribute those toys as Christmas gifts to needy children in the community in which the campaign is conducted.

For more information on the Marine Toys for Tots program, visit www.toysfortots.org. For more information on the Maryland women's basketball team, including ticket information, schedule and news, visit www.umterps.com.

-TERPS-