WILMINGTON, N.C. - An ice cream social, various games, Sammy C. Hawk sightings and other activities set the stage for Friday's Midnite Madness, which marks the official kickoff of the 2009-10 men's and women's basketball season at UNC Wilmington.

      On Wednesday, Oct. 14, members and coaches of both teams will cool off students and fans with free ice cream at 11 a.m. on the Campus Commons. A special meal is then planned at 5:30 p.m. at Wagoner Hall, with performances by the Pep Band, Dance Team and an appearance by Sammy C. Hawk.

      Thursday's activities begin with a shooting contest for T-Shirts, starting at 11 a.m. at Wagoner Hall. Contests will also be held at 4 p.m. inside Sharky's.

      The week is capped off Friday with the Trask Trek and Midnite Madness. Students and fans are invited to meet at The Seahawk Village clubhouse at 8:30 p.m. and walk to Trask Coliseum.

       Midnite Madness, hosted by radio personality Bigg B from Coast 97.3 Radio, lasts from 9:30-11 p.m., with performances by Sammy C. Hawk and the spirit groups. A "UNCW's Got Talent" contest, team introductions, team shooting contests, slam dunk contest and other surprises are planned.

         UNCW's Association for Campus Entertainment (ACE) caps the night at 11 p.m. with the "ACE Fan Jam," featuring free food and music in the Hanover Hall parking area.

      For a complete schedule of the week's activities, click here.