“Spot the Ball”is a way of life for West Virginia University football players and is fast becoming the rallying cry of Mountaineer football fans everywhere.

So much so that the popular slogan will be the theme for the fifth annual”Welcome To Touchdown City”Pep Rally featuring a Fan Clinic led by new Head Coach Rich Rodriguez on Friday, Sept. 7, at 7:30 p.m. on the Mountainlair Plaza.

The annual event, sponsored by The Dominion Post, the Mountaineer Maniacs and the WVU Student Government Association, is traditionally held the night before the home opener. WVU kicks off the home season against Ohio University at 1 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 8.

“We are thrilled that Coach Rodriguez is coming to the Touchdown City rally and bringing some of his key players,”said Chris Ferro, student body president.”We hear that the coach plans to tell us just what they expect from fans during the game so that when its a first down, a touchdown, a sack or just the spot of the ball, well be ready.”

Ferro said Rodriguez has already heard of the student booster organization known as the Mountaineer Maniacs.

“Were a lively bunch with our bright gold shirts, pom-pons, rally rags and face paint,”Ferro said,”and I think the coach and the players appreciate the important role we play at the games. So were excitedand ready to support our new coach and his players in any way we can.”

This years event will also debut the winner of The Dominion Posts extreme game,”Spot the Ball!”A new Toyota Rav 4 will be given away to one of six finalists, courtesy of University Motors. Fans still have a chance to win. Check the ad in The Dominion Post for details.

In addition, the Mountaineer Marching Band, cheerleaders and Mountaineer mascot Scott Moore will be on hand with musical favorites and cheers.

Rodriquez will will reveal”secret weapons”he wants fans and the Maniacs to perform in the stands, and the Student Government Association will hand out shakers while supplies last. The Maniacs will also be registering student members beginning at 6:30 p.m. on the Lair Plaza.

The Post will have plenty of Touchdown City bumper stickers and miniature footballs for the crowd. The event will take place rain or shine. If it rains, the event will be moved indoors to the Mountainlair ballrooms.