Bearcat fans change colors to support local fan with heart disease

Jake Walker

MARYVILLE, Mo. (KQTV) — Northwest Missouri State University’s basketball teams change their colors for one night to honor a young fan.

While usually filled with green and white, the arena turned red Thursday night during a doubleheader against the University of Central Oklahoma (UCO).

Jacob Walter, a young fan who is fighting a heart condition, and his family are loyal members of the Bearcats, as well as the Maryville Community.

“The Walters are special people here in town.” Northwest Athletic Director Andy Peterson said. “Hopefully, this brings them a little bit of joy in a time of difficulty.”

All of Bearcat Nation was encouraged to ‘Show up, Stand Strong, and Wear Red’ to Honor Jacob during both Bearcat Games

“Red is the color for heart disease awareness,” Peterson said. “There’s a lot of folks wearing red in support that just want to provide the Walter family that support.”

Jacob’s battle with his heart condition has inspired all the Bearcats who were in the arena on Thursday.

“Our kids are all aware of what he’s going through, and the attitude he’s had through the whole thing.” Bearcat Women’s Basketball Coach Austin Meyer said. “It’s a pretty impressive thing for how old he is.”

The Bearcats would end the Faith Over Fear Red Out night by winning both of their games against UCO.