WINTER HAVEN – As Polk State Volleyball focuses on the No. 1 team in the country on Wednesday night, it will also be raising awareness for a cause that affects so many throughout the world.

The Eagles will host a "Pink Out" to recognize those affected by breast cancer. October is National Breast Cancer Awareness Month. According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control, about 240,000 women are diagnosed with breast cancer each year in the U.S.

"As an institution, we want to support our community," said Blessen Jacob, Program Coordinator for Polk State's Student Activities & Leadership Office (SALO). "This is a chance to raise awareness for a disease that affects so many, bring people together, and hopefully garner some extra support for the team."

Admission for Wednesday's contest against top-ranked Florida SouthWestern State College is free. Polk State will wear pink warmups prior to the match.

The first 200 Polk State students and staff members to arrive will receive a pink Polk State Volleyball T-shirt. Food will also be available during the event for Polk State staff and students.

"We're not only facing No. 1, but we're supporting a worthwhile cause," said Head Coach Dayanna Barbosa. "As a program, we're always trying to keep perspective of the different things people go through in our community."

Ranked No. 15 in the country, Polk State is 11-6 overall and recently clinched a spot in the FCSAA Tournament. The Eagles are the lone team to win a set against the reigning national champion Buccaneers. Match time is set for 6 p.m.