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Post by ethankasales on Sept 23, 2019 14:11:56 GMT -5
As a reminder for anyone planning to attend Wednesday night’s Big Ten opener against Michigan State at Rec Hall, the Nittany Lions will be holding a “Silent Set” in support of International Week of the Deaf. The crowd will be silent from opening serve until Penn State scores its ninth point of the first set.
For those who are unaware, sophomore outside hitter Jonni Parker was born with a rare condition that allows her to hear only 40 percent in her left ear and 45 percent in her right. She’s worn hearing aids since age 4.
“It’s allowed me to do different things,” Parker said last season. “It’s allowed me to be aware of the court in different ways that most people don’t understand or see.”
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Post by elliotberton on Sept 23, 2019 15:03:28 GMT -5
Glad the match will be on tv. I would anticipate that the announcers will be briefed and take the opportunity to raise awareness.
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Post by stillkicking on Sept 23, 2019 17:57:09 GMT -5
Yes, Jonni is a great example of how a handicap need not limit you, And will always have my respect and admiration.
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Post by nyline on Sept 23, 2019 20:03:37 GMT -5
Thanks so much for posting this, Ethan. What a great idea this is. Congrats to all involved.
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Post by NittanyLions on Sept 24, 2019 15:26:16 GMT -5
So, now I'm curious. Does that mean that the silence is held through the 9th point and people can start cheering on the 10th point, or will they cheer right after the 9th point is scored?
Also, what's the significance of 9 points, versus 8, 7, or 15 points? Just curious.
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Post by ethankasales on Sept 24, 2019 15:31:29 GMT -5
So, now I'm curious. Does that mean that the silence is held through the 9th point and people can start cheering on the 10th point, or will they cheer right after the 9th point is scored? Also, what's the significance of 9 points, versus 8, 7, or 15 points? Just curious. When Penn State scores its ninth point, the crowd will then start cheering. I assume the marketing department picked nine because that’s the number Parker wears. The team also has a student manager who’s deaf and will be signing some things at the beginning of the match for the TV broadcast I believe. Parker, on the other hand, does not use sign language. |
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Post by ethankasales on Sept 24, 2019 18:23:19 GMT -5
Here's a quote from Jonni Parker on what the Silent Set match means to her. I posted this in my Tuesday practice update but figured I should add it to this thread as well.
“I think the Silent Set is an amazing opportunity to bring awareness and support to those with hearing loss," Parker said. "I believe we all should inspire one another to achieve our best every day and encourage others to chase greatness, regardless of the situation.”
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