MISHAWAKA, IND. – Bethel University’s men’s basketball team will play Indiana University of South Bend in a special charity game on Sat., Nov. 9, at 3 p.m. in the Weikamp Athletic Center on Bethel’s campus.
Tickets for the event are $3 if purchased in advance and $5 the day-of, and 50% of proceeds will go toward supporting Ella Hunt, a local teen who was diagnosed with Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA) as an infant. Due to her condition, Ella has lost all muscle control and is unable to move, swallow, or breathe on her own. Her mind is not affected and she has typical teenage dreams and goals, inspiring others through her positive outlook on life. Funds raised will go toward a new $15,000 wheelchair lift for the family’s van. You can learn more about Ella’s story on her Facebook page, @EllaLanayHunt.
“Ella has an incredibly bright light,” says her mother, Erica Hunt. “She is living in a body [that] by all standards of the world is broken. What we get to see every day is the beauty of her as a person. Bethel is giving the community an opportunity to see that light as well.”
The entire event, from start to finish, has been planned and organized by Bethel’s Administration and Organization class, taught by Kiel Boynton, assistant professor of kinesiology. The class voted to have Ella as the beneficiary. Her family is well connected to Bethel; her brother Noah graduated in 2024 and her brother Carter is a current freshman.
“I think this is just an amazing experience for everyone involved,” says Boynton. “It gives our sport management students hands-on, practical experience in event planning and administration while benefitting a wonderful local family.”
Brianna Hooton, a student in the class who is helping with promotions, marketing and communications, says she’s grateful for the opportunity to help the Hunt family.
“This event is all about the community, bringing people together to support Ella and cheer on the Bethel Pilots. I’ve learned that they have so many community members already supporting them. I love what they stand for and I am honored to be a part of this whole event,” she says.
In addition to the basketball game, there will be games, prizes, pizza, gifts, raffles and giveaways, making it a fun-filled afternoon for all attendees. Bethel students, faculty, staff, and the community are invited to attend and show their support. Donations toward Ella’s care will be accepted at the venue and online at https://bethel-university.formstack.com/forms/bu_vs_iusb?Source=bu.
“Thank you, Bethel and IUSB for embracing our family and making a difference in the life of Ella. We believe the community will be blessed as well,” says Erica Hunt.