Ole Miss Athletics Announces 2018 as Year of the Fan

Rebel Nation has proven to be the most loyal fanbase in college sports, and Ole Miss is saying a yearlong “thank you” for their devotion.

 

The athletics department is ringing in the new year by announcing 2018 will be the Year of the Fan. From running drills at fan pro day to selecting the football team uniform to calling a play in the spring game, Rebel faithful will be treated to special events, access, recognition, ticket bonuses and countless exclusive opportunities throughout the 12-month celebration.

 

“This is about one thing, saying ‘thank you’,” said Ross Bjork, Ole Miss Vice Chancellor for Intercollegiate Athletics. “We are blessed with the best fans in the country. Through the challenges we have faced, the Ole Miss family has supported us every step of the way, and they continue to believe in our program. As we move forward, we will continue to do things the right way, and we want to show our appreciation to our fans by providing them experiences this year that are unprecedented in college athletics. In addition, we look forward to recognizing some of our most passionate fans and sharing their personal stories.”

 

While a few college and professional sports teams have employed the Year of the Fan concept, none have offered opportunities as extensive and unique as Rebel Nation will be afforded in 2018. For those that love the Red and Blue, the online headquarters will be www.OMYearoftheFan.com to submit stories showcasing their Rebel fandom and learn about the many exciting experiences. Below are some of the events ahead this year.

 

Fan Pro Day: Ole Miss Football will host your very own NFL Combine at their facilities. Fans will put their skills to the test with traditional pro day drills, including the 40-yard dash and vertical jump, as well as specialty fandom stations, such as hot dog eating competition and tent set-up.

 

Select Team Uniform: For the 2018 football homecoming game, fans will select the uniform combination that the Rebels will wear against ULM through an online vote.

 

Honorary Spring Game Coach: Two fans will be selected as honorary coaches of the 2018 Grove Bowl. Each fan will receive sideline access throughout the event and get to call a play from scrimmage.

 

Hole-in-One at Vaught-Hemingway: Fans will be able to tee it up from the stadium stands and take aim at the 50-yard line to win great prizes.

 

Fantasy Radio: At select home games for football, basketball and baseball, fans will have the opportunity to call Ole Miss action just like the “Voice of the Rebels” David Kellum. An interactive studio will be set up, and fans will be able to record live game action with a friend or family member and have the recording sent to them for a lasting memory.

 

Home Run Derby: Fans can step to the plate at Swayze Field for a chance to hit a home run for Ole Miss baseball season tickets.

 

One Shining Moment: The Pavilion will open for fans to lace up their sneakers and attempt some of the most iconic shots in Ole Miss and March Madness history.

 

Lead the Football Team: Hardcore fans will be selected to: 1) lead the team through The Grove on the Walk Of Champions; 2) lead the team out of the tunnel pregame to Lock The Vaught; or 3) fire the cannon after a Rebel score.

 

Halftime Hotty Toddy: Fans can upload their best “Are You Ready” for a chance to be the Halftime Fan Hotty Toddy at a football game.

 

Season Ticket Bonuses: The earlier that fans renew or buy 2018 football season tickets, the more bonuses they receive, including personalized bricks, concession vouchers and discounts on merchandise.

 

Visit www.OMYearoftheFan.com for more exclusive fan opportunities including team access, facility tours and recognition on videoboards and social media for the Fan of the Week, birthdays and anniversaries, best tailgate and more. New experiences will be added to the site throughout the year based on fan input.