PHILADELPHIA -- The Temple University football program today held its annual media day and inaugural fan fest at Lincoln Financial Field. Both events proved successful, as a large media contingent turned out to get the inside scoop, while more than a thousand fans filled the headhouse plaza to obtain autographs and meet the 2006 Owls.
The media day began at 4:00 p.m. with a team photo by University photographer Joe Labolito. Approximately 150 players, coaches and staff filled the frame of the image, which featured one of the stadium's digital video screens in the background. After the team photo, players, coaches and staff were the subject of various group photos. During the group photo sessions, interviews took place with a contingent of print, electronic and digital media from the Delaware Valley and beyond.
The fan fest got underway at 5:00 p.m. and lasted until 7:00 p.m. ESPN Radio 920 AM broadcasted live for the entirety of the event, which featured cheerleaders, the diamond gems dance team, the band, clowns, as well games and inflatables for kids. Head coach Al Golden and Director of Athletics Bill Bradshaw both addressed the crowd, which received giveaways, consumed Philly fare and enjoyed live music while celebrating a new era of Temple football. Golden did a live remote from Fan Fest with Comcast SportsNet's Daily News Live and several local network affiliates had cameras on site to gather footage and show live highlights of the family-oriented affair.
Temple opens its season next Thursday evening, August 31, at Buffalo. The Owls then host nationally-ranked Louisville in their home opener at 12 noon on Saturday, September 9. Season tickets are available now for as low as $36 by calling 215-204-8499. Individual game tickets can be purchased through Ticketmaster, at 215-336-2000 or www.ticketmaster.com.
