GAME BALL RUN

Since 1993, the brothers of Sigma Nu Fraternity at Bradley University have also played a vital role in the philanthropic landscape of the university through their participation in the annual Game Ball Run.  This event coincides with “The War on 74,” the longstanding and spirited rivalry basketball game between Bradley University and Illinois State University.  The premise of the Game Ball Run is both unique and meaningful.  The men of Sigma Nu relay a basketball across a distance of 47 miles, starting from Redbird Arena at Illinois State and concluding at the Children’s Hospital in downtown Peoria.  This relay not only raises awareness for the children in the hospital but also embodies the spirit of teamwork and community support.

At the start of each calendar year, the brothers of the Zeta Phi Chapter at Bradley University enthusiastically engage in their annual Gameball Run philanthropy. 
This beloved tradition not only fosters camaraderie among the brothers but also serves a greater purpose in supporting children in need.  In 2025, their efforts culminated in raising an impressive $20,800 for Almost Home Kids, a non-profit organization dedicated to assisting children who have been released from hospital care but are not yet ready to return home.  Each year, the Zeta Phi Chapter embarks on a challenging run from Bloomington to Peoria.  This year’s event concluded at the OSF Children’s Hospital in Peoria, where the brothers celebrated their achievements and the impact of their fundraising on the lives of vulnerable children and their families.