Ball State University Athletics
Sunday's Football Fan Jam; Photos & Video Now Online
August 11, 2007 | Football
MUNCIE, Ind. -- An estimated crowd of nearly 2,000 packed the Scheumann Stadium practice fields Sunday afternoon as Ball State Athletics hosted its Football Fan Jam.
The first fans started lining up outside the gates at approximately 12:15 p.m., while the line extended along the practice field and near Bethel Avenue by the time the gates opened at 2 p.m.
Fans sweated through temperatures in the high 90s, for a chance to meet the Cardinals up close.
"This is tremendous," said BSU head coach Brady Hoke. "Last year's Fan Jam was great and it's even better this year. To see all these fans come out and support us -- and to brave the heat -- is exciting. Our guys know how special it is to play college football and today helps strengthen that with the support of all the fans. Thanks to everyone who came out today."
The two-hour FREE event allowed BSU fans the opportunity to meet players in uniform and coaches for autographs and pictures.
The Ball State women's volleyball team was also present for autographs, free schedule posters and season ticket information and the chance to meet new head coach Dave Boos.
The first 500 students grabbed free BSU Athletics Back-To-School backpacks filled with pens, pencils, autographs cards and the 2007 BSU football team poster.
In addition, the first 500 fans through the gates snatched up the free "Place To B" t-shirt, courtesy of BSU Athletics. T.I.S. bookstore was on-site with latest BSU sports gear, while WLBC Radio once again broadcasted live with morning show host Steve Lindell.
Free mini cheeseburgers from Cheeseburger In Paradise and free drinks from Pepsi were available for all fans.
"Today was great," said BSU athletics director Tom Collins. "We want the fans to meet our student-athletes and coaches. To see all the families and children here today and interacting with our teams is what Fan Jam is all about."
This marks the second straight season BSU Athletics has hosted "Fan Jam". In 2006, the promotion was a tremendous success with nearly 2,000 fans attending the two-hour event.
The promotion was awarded a Silver Award as the second-best targeted group promotion in the nation from the National Association of Collegiate Marketing Administrators a year ago.
