It seemed like everyone was doing their part this weekend to get involved in the Interfraternity Council/Panhellenic Dance Marathon, and Penn State student-athletes were surely no exception.

Jen Bailey, Mark Bost, Katie Hartman and Bob Jones were among the dancers who spent their weekend participating in Thon, helping to raise money for families whose children are battling cancer.

The athletes, representing the Student-Athlete Advisory Board (SAAB), said they did nothing particularly special during the week to prepare for the 48-hour event, except to try to catch some extra sleep when possible.

The athletes had all seen friends and teammates participate in Thon in the previous years, which provided inspiration for their personal involvement this year.

"I saw it as a freshman and fell in love with it," said Hartman, a women's lacrosse midfielder.

All four athletes expressed pride for the event and the university.

"It's amazing the way everyone comes together," said Bost, a member of the wrestling team.

Jones, a defensive end on last season's football team, spoke of the experience of being around the children.

"I try to be an inspiration to them, and they provide an inspiration to me," Jones said.

The athletes expressed their amazement with the time and effort put into the planning of Thon, saying they had never been part of anything quite like it.

"I'm overwhelmed and happy to be a part of it," Hartman said.

The athletes expressed no apprehension about having to stay on their feet for a 48-hour period.

"Emotionally, seeing what the kids have to go through is the most difficult part. Physically, I could care less," Jones said.

The four athletes expressed gratitude to their friends and teammates, who continuously brought them food, and offered support.

"My friends and teammates have been great, bringing me food and making me laugh," Bost said.

The four athletes were excited to be dancers for Thon, and proud to help earn money for such a worthy cause as helping families and children who are fighting cancer.

Bailey, a fencer, captured the general feeling of the four athletes: "It's an incredible cause, there's no better way to spend a weekend."