The Gold & Blue have arrived in the Valley of the Sun!

After a day-long, cross-country journey, WVU fans are ready to ring in the 2008 in style. Everyone is excited about the upcoming game and are hopeful of a Mountaineer victory on January 2.

December, as all of us know, has been a time of challenges and emotion for the Mountaineer nation. WVU alumni and friends are anxiously awaiting 2008 and the soon-to-be selection of a new football coach on the horizon.

In every WVU bowl experience, much of the behind the scenes work is done by alumni volunteers. This year is no exception. Throughout the year, thousands of volunteers donate their time, expertise and money to support WVU causes such as mentoring and student recruiting.

This year alone, more than 300 watching parties for Mountaineer football games have been held from Boston to Seattle and Minneapolis to Phoenix.

The Fiesta Bowl is a wonderul opportunity to reconnect with our alumni in the area. Ian Hover is one of the cadre of WVU graduates in the Phoenix alumni chapter who have welcomed us to this wonderful area.

On January 1, several volunteers will welcome hundreds of fans attending Mountaineer Connection at Garduno’s. WVU information and giveaways will be provided throughout the day. Mountaineer Connection, WVU’s program for fans, will kick off at noon (Central Standard Time) tomorrow with appearances by WVU cheerleaders and Mountaineer mascot Brady Campbell. Other highlights at include a strolling Mariachi band from 1-4 p.m. and a complete televised array of New Year’s Day Bowl games. A special appearance by the “Pride if West Virginia” Pep Band will be held at Garduno’s starting at 2:30 p.m.

To help everyone get into the Mountaineer spirit, Tony Caridi will host his Statewide Sportsline from the Mountaineer Connection from 4-6 p.m. (All times are listed as Arizona time.)

Hats off again to all the volunteers across the country who represent the Mountaineer Nation. And, special mention is given to the Arizona alumni group comprised of Ian Hover, John Philips, Todd Sergi, Chad Leonard, Bruce Crow, Drew Behling, Stephanie Masters, and Shannon Mummey. Thank you for being such wonderful hosts!

Let?s Go Mountaineers!