GREENWOOD, IN – The Heartland Collegiate Athletic Conference office has released an immediate response for the conference institutions regarding the tragic bus accident in Atlanta involving the Bluffton Baseball team on Friday, March 2.

All baseball teams in the conference will wear a purple sweat band on their lower arm as a testimony of their respect and concern for Bluffton University and its family. The arm band will also honor those who lost their lives in the accident, and will stand as a constant sign of support for the emotional stress and recovery of the injured and their families. These arm bands may also be worn by other sports in the conference, as well as students who would like to pay tribute and honor the Bluffton baseball team and family.

The conference also announced that flags will be flown at half mast during all home baseball games the remainder of this baseball season. Before one of the first conference home games this spring, each school will be encouraged to offer a prayer and a moment of silence for Bluffton University, its baseball team, and their friends and family.

A fund has been established at Citizens National Bank for the Bluffton baseball student-athletes that were involved in the accident. Contributions can be made by check payable to Bluffton University and mailed to Citizens National Bank, 102 S. Main Street, Bluffton, Ohio 45817. Please note "Baseball Team" in the check's memo line. Credit card contributions can be made by calling 419-358-3324 during the university's business hours. Funds will be available to the baseball players involved in the accident and their families.

The Heartland Collegiate Athletic Conference extends its sincere condolences and sympathy to the students, faculty and staff at Bluffton University. Our thoughts and prayers are with the members of the baseball team, the parents, and everyone connected to the Bluffton baseball program.