HARRISONBURG – The Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) and DRIVE SMART Virginia are excited to add the athletic departments of James Madison University (JMU) and Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU) to the ‘What’s Your Game Plan’ sober driving outreach campaign. The media is invited to join us as we expand the campaign to reach college sports fans and kick off this new partnership on October 17 at JMU’s Atlantic Union Bank Center.
“Planning ahead for a night out is a must,” said DMV Commissioner Gerald Lackey, the Governor’s Highway Safety Representative. “We are so grateful to DRIVE SMART, VCU and JMU for joining us in reminding sports fans that a sober ride home needs to be a part of their game day game plan.”
The ‘What’s Your Game Plan: Choose a Sober Driver and Buckle Up,’ campaign highlights the need to plan ahead for a safe and sober ride after events where alcohol may be involved. Targeting college sports fans offers a great opportunity to raise awareness and encourage responsible choices. “At every game, fans bring the passion and energy that make sporting events unforgettable. We want to ensure they get home safely after the final whistle,” said Kristin Pettway, Executive Director of DRIVE SMART Virginia. “Whether you're tailgating with friends or celebrating a win, having a plan for a designated driver means you can enjoy the moment without worry.”
The partnership was curated by JMU Sports Properties and VCU Sports Properties, the local, dedicated Learfield teams representing James Madison University and Virginia Commonwealth University, respectively. This partnership marks the first time the ‘What’s Your Game Plan’ campaign will be introduced at James Madison University (JMU) and its return to Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU), delivering the message of safe and responsible driving to both campuses during their sporting events. “We are proud to amplify such a vital message to our respective fan bases. We want everyone to enjoy their game day traditions responsibly and this campaign is going to provide a constant reminder to plan ahead,” says Erik Lowery, General Manager of VCU Sports Properties.
WHEN: Thursday, October 17, from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m.
WHERE: Atlantic Union Bank Center, 1700 Jeff Bourne Way, Harrisonburg, VA 22807
WHY: The ‘What’s Your Game Plan’ campaign highlights the importance of planning for a safe and sober ride home when attending events or places where drinking is likely. And what better setting to share this message than at a college sports game? Join us in this opportunity to spread awareness and encourage responsible decisions. Learn more about the dangers of impaired driving on DMV’s website.
Editor’s Note: Attendants must pre-register for parking, see the document attached for details.
DMV: Jillian Cowherd, Media Liaison
(804) 367-6834
jillian.cowherd@dmv.virginia.gov
Drive Smart: Kristin Pettway, Executive Director
(276) 206-6963
kristin.pettway@drivesmartva.org
VCU: Erik Lowery, General Manager
(518) 441-5565
erik.lowery@vcusportsproperties.com
JMU: Frank Scicchitano, Business Development Manager
(540) 568-4598
franks@jmusportsproperties.com