Penn State Football’s chapter of Uplifting Athletes will hold their annual Lift for Life this afternoon.

In one of Arts Fest’s more philanthropic traditions, more than 80 members of the 2013 Penn State Football team are expected to participate in the event that benefits the Kidney Cancer Association.

The event, which will take place from 5-7 p.m. at the lacrosse field next to the Multisport Complex, will pit offense against defense. More specifically:

• Offensive Linemen v. Defensive Linemen
• Running Backs & Tight Ends v. Linebackers
• Quarterbacks & Wide Receivers v. Defensive Backs

Competitors will participate in multiple events, including an obstacle course, sled pull and push, shuttle run, and concluding an always dramatic tug-of-war.

“Coach O’Brien and Coach Fitz have embraced Lift For Life and the impact this event can have in assisting kidney cancer patients and their families,” said Eric Shrive, president of Penn State’s chapter of Uplifting Athletes. “I hope all our fans will come out and support us and this great cause.”

Since the first Lift for Life in 2003, funds raised in support of kidney cancer patients and their families has exceeded $700,000. Last year’s event broke previous records by bringing in more than $110,000.

Penn State has already raised over $100,000 with online donations alone, creating an essential inevitability that the record will be shattered once again today.

Shrive hopes the team’s contribution will grow even more during his tenure as president. During his time on the team, he has personally raised over $100,000 for the fight against the disease that has affected him personally through a family member. He was also recently honored with Uplifting Athletes’ Rare Disease Champion Award.

There is no set entry fee for the event, however a donation of $10 for adults and $5 for students and children is suggested. Following the event, players will be available to meet with fans for an autograph session.

If you’ve already made your way to State College for the festivities, be sure to make a stop over at the lacrosse field this afternoon. Worth noting, though: the no bag policy established for athletic events this fall also applies to Life for Life, so you’ve been warned.