The Aurora University men's basketball team Head Coach James Lancaster and his staff made a very important addition to their roster leading up to the 2015–2016 season. Lancaster and his Spartans welcomed Charlie Bartzen into the AU family, and the Spartans cannot be more excited for the addition.

"When Charlie enters Thornton Gymnasium, our office or meetings, his charisma and excitement is instantly contagious," said Lancaster. "Having Charlie become a Spartan will give us that extra intangible for the upcoming season."

Charlie, a 5-year-old boy from Aurora, Illinois, comes to AU and the basketball program as part of the Friends of Jaclyn Foundation. The Friends of Jaclyn Foundation sets out to improve the quality of life for children and their families battling pediatric brain tumors and other childhood cancers while spreading awareness.

"Charlie and our entire family are very excited to be a part of the AU men's basketball team," said Josh Bartzen, Charlie's father. "Charlie grins from ear to ear at any mention of his 'team,' and it's been quite a joy to see the looks on all of his friends' faces when he tells them that he's on a college basketball team. In fact, when we left practice last Friday, his older brothers PJ and Tate both told Charlie, 'This is unbelievable.' 
 
We can't thank Coach Lancaster, his staff, the team, and the entire AU family enough for their graciousness and support. Charlie and the rest of our family are looking forward to rooting on the Spartan's all season long."

Charlie will serve as a honorary coach throughout the 2015–2016 season. His duties will include being on the Spartan bench for contests he attends and being a part of Spartan practices. Charlie was initially diagnosed with pediatric melanoma at the age of 2 and underwent his last chemotherapy session in July 2015.

"The team feels a sense of pride that Charlie looks up to us, and we are a part of something he is inspired by," said senior captain Kalmon Stokes. "We are stoked to have him as part of our team this year and every time we step foot on a court, Charlie will feel the excitement that we bring to the gym. Charlie is part of our Spartan family so we're going to show our little brother how to play Spartan basketball."