After waiting nearly a year, Temple football
fans finally got what they wanted – a new coach, the chance to meet with players and a glimpse into what direction Temple football is headed.
This opportunity came to fans Aug. 23 when the program launched its first Fan Fest at Lincoln Financial Field.
More than one thousand fans packed the Headhouse Plaza to receive autographs and meet with the 2006 Owls. The event also featured Temple cheerleaders, the Diamond Gems Dance Team and the marching band.
Senior Dorsey Spencer said he felt the Fan Fest was a great way to kick off the new season.
“There’s a lot more excitement and a lot more support behind the team,” Spencer said. “I think that will make a big difference in how they perform. I’m excited and looking forward to this season, especially seeing a turnout for something like this.”
Many fans also said they were eager to see how the team would play this season.
Senior Ryan Feldman says he expects that the new coaching staff will contribute the most to their success this season.
“I expect [the team] to be more organized than last year, have more discipline and hopefully, win a couple games,” Feldman said. “They have a good coach now and he’s really hyping up the program and getting the players really hyped up about it.”
Feldman also said that, from a fan’s perspective, coach Al Golden’s attempts to get students more involved in Temple football has been successful and worthwhile.
“Temple’s doing a good job trying to get students involved,” Feldman said. “They are going out of their way to make sure students are getting excited for football.”
The only thing fans said they have to complain about this season is the lack of home games.
The team faces a challenging 12-game schedule this season, but only four games are played at Lincoln Financial Field.
Senior Mike Saks said he is disappointed that he will only be able to support the Owls at the four home games.
“I think I’m more excited this year except for the [fewer] home games,” he said, “but I do think we have a better shot at winning a game or two.”
Saks also said that there is one noticeable difference on the team from previous seasons.
“Al Golden brought a whole new coaching staff with him, which meant they all want to be here,” Saks said. “Coaches want to be here and students want to play here. Al Golden is doing anything it takes to make a change here.”
Melissa DiPento can be reached at Melissa.dipento@temple.edu.
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