In celebration of the fact that “We Are” less than 100 days away from the 2023 Thundering Herd football season, Marshall Athletics has announced a schedule of home game themes for the 2023 season – all fittingly themed “We Are.”
This is part of a season-long celebration that incorporates the Marshall motto “We Are Marshall” into many different initiatives. This season’s celebration includes special recognition and special friends – such as beloved contemporary Christian singing talent and national inspiration Marlana VanHoose, who will join Herd Nation for a pair of football games this season.
VanHoose, who was born with Cytomegalovirus and is blind, took the Henderson Center by storm with her performance of the national anthem during the 2022-23 basketball season. Now, she will bring her talent to Joan C. Edwards Stadium for two games – to sing the national anthem for the Virginia Tech game (Sept. 23) and to offer her rendition of “God Bless America” for the Military Appreciation game (Nov. 25).
FULL LIST OF 2023 FOOTBALL GAME THEMES:
6PM, Sept. 2 vs Albany – “We Are … Marshall”
The 2023 season kicks off with Marshall Athletics bringing the entire community together. In addition to Marshall’s Staff and Faculty Appreciation day, Huntington-area youth are also invited to represent their local groups, including sports teams, spirit teams (cheer and dance) and other local youth groups. In partnership with the Marshall University Marching Thunder, it will also be Band Day where local high school bands are invited to come play with the MUMT. The game will be broadcast live on ESPN+.
Attire: Wear Green!!
Sept. 23 vs. Virginia Tech – “We Are … Striping The Joan!”
Marshall welcomes an ACC opponent to Huntington as Virginia Tech comes to Joan C. Edwards Stadium with the Herd looking to knock off a Power Five team for the second straight season. This game will serve as Family Weekend for Marshall University and the day will start with Marlana VanHoose singing the Star-Spangled Banner.
Attire: Green or White (check your seat assignment)
Sept. 30 vs. Old Dominion – “We Are … Homecoming!”
Marshall will celebrate its earliest Homecoming game since 1977 while also starting Sun Belt play against East Division rival Old Dominion. The crowning of Mr. and Miss Marshall at halftime will put the signature on a week full of events for Marshall University and Marshall Athletics as they welcome home our fellow Sons and Daughters of Marshall.
Attire: Wear Green!!
7PM, Oct. 19 vs. James Madison – “We Are … Herd Strong!”
This Thursday night affair will serve as a Cancer Awareness contest for MU. ‘I Stand Up For’ signs will be distributed for fans who want to join the cause to Stand Up To Cancer. There will be plenty of excitement as Marshall takes on new Sun Belt East rival James Madison. The Herd handed the Dukes their lone home loss in Sun Belt play in 2022. The game will be broadcast live on ESPN2.
Attire: Wear Green!!
Nov. 11 vs. Georgia Southern – “We Are … Playing For the ’75′”
The “75 Game” serves as the program’s opportunity to honor the 75 people lost in the crash of Southern Airways Flight 932, on Nov. 14, 1970. Former Southern Conference foe Georgia Southern travels to Joan C. Edwards Stadium for the game, which annually serves as the most impactful contest of the season.
Attire: Wear Black!!
Nov. 25 vs. Arkansas State – “We Are … Thankful For Heroes!”
Military Appreciation Game for all those who have bravely served our beloved country. Marlana VanHoose returns for a pre-game rendition of “God Bless America” before a large flag is displayed on the field in conjunction with the playing of our National Anthem. There will also be a military plane flyover during the pre-game festivities and a potential surprise that fans won’t want to miss!
Attire: Wear Green!!
Check HerdZone.com for updates and the latest information.
