CHAMPAIGN, Ill. – City of Champaign Mayor Don Gerard announced today that he will declare Sunday, January 11, as “Champaign Swarm Day” in the city.

On Sunday, the Swarm will play their first game in team history at 3 p.m. at the Dodds Athletic Center at Parkland College when they host the St. Louis RiverSharks.

Just prior to the game’s start, Gerard will participate in a ceremonial tipoff with Parkland College President Tom Ramage and Midwest Professional Basketball Association Commissioner Ed Schumer. Gerard will then officially issue the proclamation.

“The Swarm will add to the quality of life in Champaign and will be another great entertainment option in our community, especially for families,” Gerard said. “Plus, it’s an opportunity to build civic pride. It’s cool to have the team, and I can’t wait to be there.”

The proclamation acknowledges the Swarm as the first professional basketball team in the city and cites the mission of the MPBA.

Several other elements at Sunday’s game will also help the Swarm celebrate the launch of the team. The pep band from Unity High School in Tolono, Ill., will perform throughout the contest, under the direction of Bill Jean. The Expressions choir from Centennial High School in Champaign will perform the National Anthem, led by Marian Wyatt. Several local elementary and middle school students will form a Swarm cheering section, “The Beehive.”

Tickets to the game are $8, available at the door. The game will also be broadcast live via the MPBA website, http://www.thempba.com/game/show/8735871.