News Editor

Tonight will be a special night at TSU as fans from all over the county come together to support the Trojans on the move to Division 1-A and the big game against Nebraska on Saturday.

"This is a huge celebration," said Dr. Jean Laliberte, dean of Advancement at Troy State University. "It is a celebration on the move to Division 1-A as well as the game against Nebraska. It’s a history making event and we want to involve the community and give them the opportunity to show their Trojan spirit."

The Fan Appreciation Rally officially kicks off at 6:30 p.m. Local vendors will have booths set up outside Trojan Arena at Sartain Hall to promote products and services offered in Pike County.

"The first 250 people will get free t-shirts and other businesses will be giving away various things," Laliberte said.

The spirit at Troy State is infectious and schools officials, students, football players, cheerleaders, the band and everyone involved in TSU’s progression to Division 1-A hopes the entire community catches some of it.

"This is a fanfare event," Laliberte said. "The Sound of the South will march in, and it will be its last public appearance before they perform in Nebraska. That is really exciting."

Trojan Head Football Coach Larry Blakeney, TSU Chancellor Jack Hawkins, Troy Mayor Jimmy Lunsford will speak at the rally. After the rally troy State Football players will be on hand for autographs and pictures for children.

What makes the rally even more special is, Welch Suggs, assistant sports editor for the Chronicle of Higher Education, will be in Troy writing a story on Troy State’s move to Division 1-A.

"The Chronicle of Higher Education is to education like the Wall Street Journal is to business," Laliberte said. "This is an opportunity to show support for Troy State that will be chronicled in a major publication."

Suggs will also be flying to Nebraska to attend the game.

Laliberte said the rally will be a regular event before each TSU home game.