As part of the Pullman Summer Concert Series, Marshall University and Kindred Communications will host a special night to kick off the school year and football season Thursday, Aug. 20, at Pullman Square in downtown Huntington.
The event will take place from 6 until 10 p.m. In addition to the vendors and activities that have taken place each week of the concert series, this event will also include a fashion show, photo booth, the Marching Thunder, Marco and Marshall University Athletics.
The first hour will include music from the popular local radio station Hits 97.9 and a Herd Fan Fashion Show featuring some of Marshall’s licensed gear. The show will give fans the opportunity to view some of the new fall apparel available at various local retail locations.
“Marshall University employees, students and fans everywhere are encouraged to participate in Green Fridays and to wear their Kelly green to the stadium throughout the season,” said Mallory Jarrell, Marshall University marketing and branding coordinator. “The fashion show will be a sample of some of the items fans could wear to show their Thundering Herd pride.”
The Carpenter Ants will play from 7 until 8 p.m., followed by an hour-long pep rally featuring the Marching Thunder, cheerleaders, dance team, and everyone’s favorite bison, Marco. Head football Coach Doc Holliday and the players will also be meeting fans and signing autographs.
“The unwavering support from the Huntington and Tri-State communities are what makes our football program so special,” Holliday said. “The kickoff event at Pullman Square is a prime example of the kind of support we get. It will be a great event and I know myself and our guys are looking forward to it.”
The Marching Thunder is looking to engage the fans at Joan C. Edwards Stadium this season. Members of the band will be teaching some of the new stadium cheers at the event Thursday evening.
“We are excited to bring the entire Marching Thunder to the event to help kick off football season, said Dr. Adam Dalton, director of athletic bands at Marshall University. “We will be performing portions of music from our upcoming season as well as debuting some new cheers for the football games.”
Guests will also have the opportunity to register to win prizes including gift cards from retailers participating in the fashion show and Thundering Herd football tickets.
Here is a brief look at the event schedule:
• 6 p.m. – Music by Hits 97.9
• 6:30 p.m. – Herd Fan Fashion Show
• 7 p.m. – The Carpenter Ants take the stage
• 8 p.m. – Marshall University Pep Rally
• 9 p.m. – Carpenter Ants return to the stage