It's Like Game Day - The Hilltoppers are spending Thursday's practice going through game-day routines before taking the field for a full scrimmage.
"We only had one full scrimmage this fall, so we wanted to get another one in and play it like a game, at least in the first half," said head coach Willie Taggart. "I want to get our guys out and show them what it's going to be like on game day in terms of substitutions and running on and off the field. That way next Saturday won't be the first time they go through it in that manner. We want to see guys locked in, and doing things the right way."
One Last Chance To Impress - Thursday's scrimmage will also give the Hilltopper coaching staff one more opportunity to see players in a game-like atmosphere as the depth chart for Austin Peay begins to solidify itself just nine days away from kickoff.
"I told the guys that this was their last chance to get on the bus," said Taggart. "Some guys are right on the doorstep, and this scrimmage will play a big part of seeing whether or not they will be there with us."
Family Fun Day Exciting Time For All Involved - Houchens Industries-L.T. Smith Stadium is just two days away from hosting the fourth annual Family Fun Day, set for 4-6 p.m. (CDT) on Saturday. With the season just around the corner, Taggart looks at that event as a great opportunity for fans to get to know this year's team and coaches up close and personal, and vice versa.
"We're talking about improving our football team and creating national identity, and the only way can do that is to win and pack this stadium every chance we get," said Taggart. "Family Fun Day is a great opportunity for us to build those relationships with our fans, and it's a great chance for our community to come out and meet our players and coaches."
In addition to the interaction, the free event will also feature a Fun Zone set up for kids with activities including inflatables and face painting. Free Coke products and popcorn will also be provided to the first 500 fans. Those in attendance are also encouraged to take advantage of a free tour of the WKU football facility. From 4-4:30 p.m., fans will have the opportunity to tour the WKU football weight room and training room, with picture opportunities available in the state-of-the-art facilities.
"This is a great time for our players to get to know our fans as well," added Taggart. "We want to build this thing, and we want to do it together. So I encourage all of Hilltopper Nation to show up on Saturday!"
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