West Virginia University head football coach Rich Rodriguez and his wife, Rita, have shown their support for the WVU Marching Band’s Band Aid Drive through their gift of a new uniform. The drive’s goal is to raise $270,000 for 400 new band uniforms.

“We are proud to be a part of this effort,” Rodriguez said. “The band is such an integral part of not only our football program, but the entire University and state. And while the band has performed all over the country, its most prominent contribution has been as a fan energizer for WVU football games. When we hear the band strike up the fight song, it really gets our guys pumped.

“If everyone would buy a full uniform ($500) or even a raincoat ($35), we could reach that $270,000 with ease,” Rodriguez added. “I urge every Mountaineer fan to make a gift – whatever you can give. The band needs to look its best when it represents us. Remember, it is the ‘Pride of West Virginia.’”

The old uniforms were worn over an 11-year span, despite a life expectancy of just seven to eight years. And although the style is similar to its predecessor, the new uniforms will be updated with a flashier, more detailed look. The most recognizable change is the addition of a large gold “Flying WV” on the back of the uniform capes.

Costs for new uniforms break down as follows: entire uniform, $500; coat and cape, $340; pants, $105; helmet and plume, $60; and raincoats, $35.

All donors receive special thank-you gifts in correspondence with the amount given, ranging from a car decal and limited-edition band CD to a retired band hat and framed “Flying WV” plaque.

Rodriguez has led the Mountaineer football team to four straight bowl games and three consecutive Big East Championships. A stellar 2005 season was capped off by an impressive 38-35 Sugar Bowl victory over The University of Georgia Bulldogs.

Contributions to the Band Aid campaign should be sent to Band Aid Drive, c/o WVU Foundation, P.O. Box 1650, Morgantown, WV 26507-1650. Checks should be made out to WVUF Band Aid Drive. To make a gift online, go to www.wvuf.org/bandaid.

For further information, contact the WVU Foundation at 304-284-4000.

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