Marshall University’s motion picture debut has completed filming and what a success!

Marshall alum came out in full force to do final scenes featuring Marshall University and the University of Texas in a fictitious Orange Bowl game and outnumbered the Texas Longhorns fans 150 to 25 (directors had to attract passers-by to wear Texas shirts for the scenes). 

Everyone had a great time and all were encouraged to have Marshall University’s name spread literally from coast to coast. We had attendees from West Virginia, Ohio, Phoenix, Las Vegas, San Diego and Los Angeles, just to name a few.

Keith Spears and Rhonda Mullins from Communications were on-site coordinating with the alumni to ensure that banners, t-shirts, caps and numerous other lettered signage opportunities were within camera range.

“The Marshall fans were exciting”, said Dirt Nap director D.B. Sweeney. “They even arrived before the film crew and made the day a lot of fun. Their tailgate food was great. It was like a real party. I know why the Thundering Herd does so well. Their fans are champions, too.”

Patti White, Marshall alumna and Southern California Alumni Club president, was also on hand to help. Patti did an extraordinary job helping us solicit the support of the local alumni.

The entire film shoot was a long and tiring activity. We were on-site in the hot sun 11:30 a.m. until 8:15 p.m.; however, our alumni arrived early and stayed until the end to ensure that Marshall was well represented

Director Sweeney commented that Marshall fans were extremely cordial, easy to work with, and willing to cooperate and get the job done.

Brian Ridgeway, Marshall University alum (right) with companion.	Rhonda Mullins, university communications and project coordinator (right) with director D.B. Sweeney.
Laura Sopko (shaking hands with director D. B. Sweeney), friend Casey and Lisa Sopko.	Keith Spears, vice president of university communcations and marketing (right) with director D.B. Sweeney.
Joyce, Derek and Tyler Fetty ready to enter Qualcomm Stadium to begin filming.	Lisa (right) and Laura Sopko "tailgating" on set. Lisa is a former Marshall Women's track athlete and a Marshall University alumni.

Marshall fans preparing for filming in Qualcomm Stadium. Marshall fans outnumbered Texas fans approximately 150 to 25!