Normally, when the Fighting Tigers’ fans gather at a football game on Friday night, they’re at Tanks Memorial Stadium to cheer for the orange and black.

But this Friday night, Tiger fans will get the chance to cheer for the…. teal?

A Teal Out For Bethany will take place during the game, which will be dedicated to Bethany Bibb, a 17-year-old Ironton High School student who suffers from cystic fibrosis and is on a list awaiting the chance for a lung transplant.

Teal is Bibb’s favorite color.

Valerie Freeman, guard staff assistant for the Ironton High School Marching Band, said T-shirts are being sold now to help pay for the medical expenses associated with Bibb’s illness and treatment. It is estimated the transplant alone will cost $35,000.

“Bethany was in the band until she got sick,” Freeman explained. “The flag corps will carry teal flags in honor of her (during their half-time program) and the cheerleaders will have teal pompoms.”

Freeman said T-shirts will be available at the game. The price is $10 for sizes small through extra large and $15 for sizes 2X and 3X.

“This is to show the great support the Ironton community has for its young people,” Freeman explained. “And it’s an opportunity for the students to pay it forward and help another student.”

Those who wish to place an order may call Freeman at 532-4133 or purchase a shirt at the stadium on game night. Donations may be made without purchasing a T-shirt.

Donations should be directed to the Children’s Organ Transplant Association, 2501 West COTA Drive, Bloomington, IN, 47403. Checks or money orders should be made payable to COTA, with “In Honor of Bethany B.” written on the memo line of the check. Secure credit card donations are also accepted online at www.COTAforBethanyB.com.