SPRINGFIELD, Mo. – Missouri State University will recognize a pair of worthy causes during its final home stand of the season. The Bears will attempt to #StrikeoutALS, while also taking time to give back to those who selflessly serve both our nation and local community as part of its `Salute to America's Heroes' when the Bears host Indiana State on May 13. 

In continuing their efforts to raise awareness for Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), the Bears will collect donations for the ALS Association of St. Louis at Hammons Field for the 2 p.m. Missouri Valley Conference game against ISU. Fans may also pledge their donations online at webstl.alsa.org. 

This season's contest will mark the second time the Bears have sponsored an ALS awareness game, as MSU drew nearly 3,800 fans to its September 2012 'Battle for Bell' exhibition contest against cross-town rival Drury that benefited former Bear Howard Bell in his fight against the disease.

Additionally, all U.S. service men and women, as well as all firefighters, police, EMTs and other first responders are invited to attend the contest, to which they will receive a buy-one, get-one free (with a service ID) ticket rate.

No phone or online orders will be accepted for the special ticket offer, as fans must present their service ID in person at the MSU Athletics Box Office located at JQH Arena or on game day at the Hammons Field box office. Bears' single-game tickets are priced at $5 for the general public, $2.50 for Missouri State faculty and staff and $2 for students. All children ages 12 and under require a $2 ticket for admission. For additional information on tickets, contact Duane Miller at (417) 836-8899 or duanemiller@missouristate.edu.

Missouri State (30-14, 11-0 MVC) will look to keep its perfect Valley start intact Friday (May 5) evening when it opens a three-game conference set with Southern Illinois at Jones Stadium in Carbondale, Ill.