Outlaws’ ball to help Make-A-Wish charity

Thursday, Feb. 1, 2001 | 10:51 a.m.

The Las Vegas Outlaws' XFL opener Saturday will will bring smiles to the faces of the children who benefit from the Make-A-Wish Foundation of Southern Nevada. Nikco Sports has announced that it is marketing a limited edition, commemorative football to honor the Outlaws for their inaugural season in the XFL.

The regulation-size football is licensed by the XFL, and has the official markings and logo of the Las Vegas Outlaws. Nikco Sports hopes to raise $25,000 for the Make-A-Wish Foundation of Southern Nevada -- a group that makes dreams come true for children with life-threatening illnesses -- by donating $5 from each ball sold.

Only 5,000 footballs will be produced, priced at $99 each. The footballs will be sold only via a toll-free number (1-800-345-2868) or at www.nikcosports.com, and will NOT be available at any retail outlets. A letter of authenticity, suitable for framing, is also enclosed.

The Make-A-Wish Foundation grants wishes to children with life-threatening illnesses. It's the largest wish-granting organization in the world, with 81 active chapters in the U.S. and more than 20,000 volunteers. The Make-A-Wish Foundation was founded in Phoenix, in 1980, and has granted more than 80,000 wishes over the past 20 years.