And now, lets bring on the Mountaineers! The West Virginia University football team is back in action this fall, gearing up for a promising 2005 season.

All WVU fans are invited to cheer and show support for the Mountaineers at WVU s annual FanFest rally at 5 p.m. Friday, Sept. 9, in front of the Mountainlair. FanFest will kick off the home opener for the Mountaineers as they get ready to take on Wofford at 6 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 10, at Milan Puskar Stadium.

FanFest will include an appearance by the team, brief remarks from WVU Head Football Coach Rich Rodriguez as well as several players.

Leading the cheers and songs will be the 350-member nationally recognized Mountaineer Marching Band, cheerleaders and Mountaineer mascot Derek Fincham.

Support will also come from WVU President David Hardesty and his wife Susan as they send their best wishes to the team for a great season.

The Mountaineers continue to be a more competitive and stronger team each season,said Hardesty.This makes for an ecstatic and supportive student body and community. I am sure we will have a great turnout for our annual pep rally, and record numbers at our season opener against Wofford.

FanFest participants also can enjoy complementary refreshments. Hot dogs, snow cones, cotton candy and popcorn will be served beginning at 4:30 p.m. The event also will include special giveaways.

FanFest is sponsored by Cellular One, Coca-Cola, WVU s Office of Institutional Advancement, the Mountaineer Maniacs and the Student Government Association.