West Georgia Technical College Athletics is set to host a Casino Night fundraiser on Nov. 19 at the Sunset Hills Country Club. The event will feature casino-style poker, craps, blackjack and roulette while money raised will benefit the WGTC Athletic Department.

“We are very excited about this event,” said WGTC Athletic Director Todd Pratt. “It will great way for the community to help support the Golden Knights athletes.”

Participants will be able to purchase tickets, which include “casino cash” that gamblers can later redeem for real prizes at the end of the night.

The West Georgia Technical College Foundation—a private, non-profit organization that raises funds for WGTC—is partnering the institution’s Athletics Department to host the event.

“We’re not funded by the state, so all of our athletic funding comes from student fees,” said Pratt. “We continue to reach out to the local communities that we serve to offset costs that we incur in our four programs.”

Pratt noted that WGTC’s sports programs are competing with some of the top collegiate athletic programs within its own region of National Junior College Athletic Association competition.

Casino Night will begin at 6 p.m. on Nov. 19, and will feature a disc jockey, hors d'oeuvres, as well as a cash bar for attendees to enjoy.

“At 9:30 p.m., all chips will be redeemed for chances to win casino prizes,” said Pratt. “The more “money” won, the more chances players will get to win real prizes.”

The WGTC Athletic Department is also seeking corporate sponsorships for the event. Sponsors will receive admission, extra casino cash, drink tickets and recognition during the event.

Proceeds will help offset expenses that the four sports incur during the 2016-17 competition seasons.

“It is unusual for technical colleges in Georgia to offer four sports, but West Georgia Technical College has offered four sports since 2011,” said Dr. Tonya Whitlock, Vice President of Student Affairs. “The college must fundraise to support all of the teams and to afford each the opportunity to participate in postseason play. This will be a fun event that we know all will enjoy.”

Each ticket to Casino Night is $50, and can be purchased online, or at the event. To purchase tickets or become a corporate sponsor, please contact the WGTC Athletic Department (770) 577-6048 or send an email to [email protected].