September 21, 2005
Texas A&M has moved its football game with Texas State to Thursday at 7:30 p.m. at Kyle Field in an effort to avoid the effects of Hurricane Rita this weekend, the athletic department said Wednesday.
To assist those college football fans unable to attend the game, Fox Sports Net has agreed to televise the game.
A&M Athletic Director Bill Byrne said that moving the game to Thursday and adding the FSN cameras to Kyle Field will be beneficial to everyone involved.
"We have spent last couple of days reviewing many options about playing this football game," Byrne said. "Our first objective was the safety of our student-athletes, staff, and fans, while still being able to contribute to the community efforts relating to Hurricane Rita.
"President (Dr. Robert) Gates has allowed us to move the game to Thursday and we are pleased that Jon Heidtke at Fox Sports Southwest has done everything he could to get the game on television for our fans."
University President Dr. Robert Gates said the weather is expected to be clear on Thursday evening. He said the decision to play the game was an exceptionally difficult decision. Gates said the school was holding the game primarily for the students and encouraged those fans not in Bryan and College Station to remain off the roadways so not to impede those evacuating affected areas. Gates said no hotels will be available in the area Thursday night.
A Yell Practice will be held at 9 p.m. Wednesday.
More information about game-day activities and the distribution for the FSN broadcast can be found at AggieAthletics.com.
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MESSAGE FROM COACH FRAN
Howdy, Students!
We all feel good to know that we at Texas A&M are taking good care of each other and of people affected by the latest hurricane when and if it hits Texas this weekend, as predicted.
It also feels good to know that our football game that is now set for Thursday night can provide relief in its own way. I just want you to know how much we will need that usual 12th Man support in the east stands, because many or our usual fans might not be able to make it. It's up to you to step up and carry the night. (You can practice tonight at Simpson Drill Field at a yell practice at 9 o'clock.)
Last Saturday during the SMU game I looked up and saw you still standing and rocking the place while the heat was bearing down, and it reinforced for me once again how special you are up there where it says "Home of the 12th Man." Thursday is already special because it's an Aggie Ring day, and you can add to the special atmosphere by bringing your A-game against Texas State.
Our players, our staff and I will appreciate it greatly.
Gig 'em!
Coach Fran