IND and Mercy prepare to tip-off in state's biggest girls' basketball rivalry

INDians show their spirit at the 2009 game

It's a girls' school basketball game that rivals anything between boys' schools. And, while the players from the two schools each have plenty of talent, it is the tradition of the IND (Institute of Notre Dame) v Mercy game that is most meaningful to students and alumnae.

Following are 10 things you should know about "The Game:"

• The 44th annual IND v Mercy High School basketball game will be held Friday, January 29, 2010 with pre-game activities at 7:00 p.m. and tip-off at 7:30 p.m.
• More than 3,000 fans are expected to attend "The Game" at the Towson Center.

IND's Caitlin Bopp ’09  v Mercy’s Brynne Matthews

• The IND Indians v Mercy Magic game has attracted the largest crowd to view a high school girls' basketball game in the State of Maryland.
• The first meeting of the teams took place at the Baltimore Civic Center, now the Baltimore Arena. Over the years the venue has changed to accommodate the growing number of fans that show up to support their teams and watch good basketball. Other locations have included UMBC, Loyola College, Loyola High School and Mt. St. Joseph's High School.

• Both the Super Bowl and "The Game" began in 1967 and will be played for the 44th time this year.
• IND won the first game with a score of 31-23. Since 1967, the IND Indians have won 16 times and Mercy Magic boasts 27 victories.
• Pre-game excitement begins the week before "The Game" as the schools host a spirit week. At IND spirit week includes class competitions in locker room decorations, dance, posters, spirit.
   

Mercy cheerleaders entertain the crowd 

• The pageantry surrounding the event makes it more than just one more game on the schedule for both teams. The competition between the cheerleaders, pep squads, and alumnae and students singing their Alma Maters make it a homecoming.
• Tickets sold at the door at the Towson Center on the night of the game will cost $11. Tickets sell fast so make sure you get yours early before they sell out.
• IND's Caitlin Bopp ’09 (pictured above) is now playing D-I at Rider University now; she has been the Rookie of the Week several times this season.