ALBANY, N.Y. -- University at Albany Athletics and the Student-Athlete Advisory Committee (SAAC) have teamed up with the America East Conference to promote the You Can Play Project initiative during upcoming America East Conference games. 

The You Can Play Project will headline the men's and women's basketball games vs. UMass Lowell on Jan. 27 and Feb. 25.  

A new You Can Play video will be shown, along with a member of SAAC reading the You Can Play Pledge at halftime. The video stars University at Albany student athletes who explain what You Can Play is and what it does for teammates, coach's and spectators. Fans will also have the opportunity to sign the pledge.

The mission of You Can Play is dedicated to ensuring equality, respect and safety for all athletes, without regard to sexual orientation.

You Can Play works to guarantee that athletes are given a fair opportunity to compete, judged by other athletes and fans alike, only by what they contribute to the sport or their team's success.

You Can Play seeks to challenge the culture of locker rooms and spectator areas by focusing only on an athlete's skills, work ethic and competitive spirit.

The America East is the first Division I conference to partner with the You Can Play project, a registered 501(c)3 non-profit organization dedicated to ensuring equality, respect and safety for all athletes, without regard to sexual orientation or gender identity.