Support the Hep

Coach Hep here, and I still want you! It was great to meet some of you in the spring, and I'm looking forward to seeing the rest of you soon. To the freshmen -- you've chosen a great university. Part of your college experience at a Big Ten school should include memories with your friends Saturdays at Memorial Stadium in the fall.\nThe team has been here since Aug. 7, working hard to become the best team it can be. I'm especially proud of our seniors. They have led us throughout the early stages of the transition to a new coach, and I hope you join me in making this a championship season for the seniors and everyone else. \nAthletics Director Rick Greenspan has called IU football the "heart of IU Athletics." A winning football team will be great for everyone, and I need all of you to help make it happen. From the first time I was introduced to you last January until today, I've said you are the most important part of our formula for success. Our players love all our fans, but they are students like you, so you are especially important to them.\nJoin us two hours before the kick-off of each home game for "The Walk." The team will be dropped off in the tailgate area across 17th Street and walk into the stadium together. It is very symbolic as we "march together into our house." Similar "walks" are great traditions at many Division I schools. It will be a chance for you to see the team before the game and also an opportunity for them to see and hear you.\nSaturday, we practiced singing the fight song with the band, and we're ready to sing it with you after home game victories.\nFinally, we are in the heart of limestone country, and Memorial Stadium is made from that limestone. We have come up with a nickname for the stadium: "THE ROCK!" And we've got a song for all the fans to sing together -- "R.O.C.K. in the U.S.A.!" We've got John Mellencamp's permission, and we can use the song to help "ROCK the ROCK!"\nIf you think this sounds like fun, you're right! So, if you haven't gotten your season tickets for football, get them now. You have until Tuesday to take advantage of the block seating offer so you can be guaranteed of sitting with your friends. Call (866) IU-SPORTS, or go to the ticket office in Assembly Hall to get your tickets. If you have time, stop by the football office or come by practice so we can meet. Saturday, Sept. 10 is the first chance we get to "ROCK the ROCK" together!\nGO HOOSIERS!