Iowa Ladies' Football Academy is wonderful event

I would like to extend my support and enthusiasm for the Iowa Ladies' Football Academy. I had the pleasure of attending their first event in June at Kinnick Stadium. It is a wonderful event to raise money for the University of Iowa Children's Hospital. Nearly 300 women attended and raised $150,000 for the University of Iowa Children's Hospital.

At the event, we learned all about football, participated in drills and received a wonderful tour of the facilities. I even caught a touchdown pass from Marvin McNutt! The coaches and players were insightful, helpful and entertaining. My love and appreciation for the Hawkeyes grew to a new level when I was able to see the program in action.

No men (besides the players and coaches, of course) were allowed inside Kinnick that afternoon, something most of us never get to see. It was truly an extraordinary experience.

The enthusiasm and passion for Hawkeye football and the University of Iowa Children's Hospital made the event a success! As a Hawkeye community, we came together to raise an impressive amount of money for one of the best children's hospitals in the country. I hope that next year we can raise more money and recruit more women to attend so that this event can continue to be a success.

In its first year, Mary Ferentz and her team put on an outstanding event. I know next year will be bigger and better. Please visit iowaladiesfootballacademy.com to see pictures from the event and learn more.

I encourage ladies in the Hawkeye community to join me next June for the second academy.

Allison Staak

Iowa City