Mountaineer Nation

Last weekend, I had the opportunity to attend my WVU football game since I started my new position, along with the traditional pre-game and post-game celebrations.

Wow!!

Mountaineer faithful showed up in numbers and displayed the goodness and passion that I have gotten to know and appreciate. From Tailgate City, to the pregame event hosted by Gordon Gee at Blaney House, to the roar of the crowd as the Mounties took the field, I could not have been more energized.

Gordon Gee, of course, set the standard for Mountaineer wear – pants with flying WVs on them, one gold and one blue sneaker, and blue and gold glasses. He pointed out that bringing our alumni and fan base together for a game reminds all of us of the power of the university and the passion of our state for the Flying WV, which ranks in the top 20 of all collegiate logos.

Walking to the game through the mass that was celebrating before the game, I was impressed that there was order to the lines, people were kind and gracious and everyone had on gold and blue.

I met folks from every corner of our state – a great reminder of the reach of the university.

Even better, the Mounties won in a great effort over Georgia Southern. One fan of the rival team pointed out that Georgia Southern’s starting quarterback was ruled ineligible the week before the first game. He also admitted that it would not have made the needed difference.

A rousing rendition of Country Roads finished the night.

An opening win, the state’s university, Flying WVs on every corner – it’s a privilege  to be a Mountaineer in a state that has great people and unlimited potential for good.

Lets go Mountaineers!