Battle for the Palladium: Troy vs. Middle Tenessee

[MT01]

Some of you may already know what this is. Thank you to all the Troy fans who came over to the MT board to help us with the brainstorming efforts.

For those of you not in the know on this, a few people started brainstorming about how we could develop better rivalries in the conference. It just so happens that MT and Troy have the longest running series of any Sun Belt members dating back to 1936. UL U'Pick em didn't start playing each other until 1951, although they have played more games against each other.

With both schools having a definitive Greek Mythology link, a little knowledge of Greek Mythology produced what is now going to called The Battle for the Palladium annually given to the winner of the MT/Troy game. All good rivalries (or most anyway) have something you play for. For a description of The Palladium you can look at the next message.

There is a chance the SGA's from both schools may pony up and pay for the development of the piece but of course we do not hold our breaths. We have begun asking the Middle Tennessee folks for donations to help fund this wonderful piece of work, and we're hoping the Troy fans will also. You can submit a donation to the following address via PayPal: MT_VS_TROY_FUND@EXCITE.COM or to uofmt01@gmail.com (which is my own address and since I signed the contract you may feel free to send to me as well). For the latest picture of the statue you can visit:
http://community.webshots.com/photo/188351486/200155356EJmGIu

Thanks for your time!

[MT01]

Greek Mythology holds that The Palladium is a wooden statue that fell from Heaven kept at the Temple of Athena in the city of Troy. According to legend, as long as The Palladium was preserved within the walls of the city, Troy would be safe and could not be taken. However, a “Raider” by the name of Odysseus - also known as the Raider of Cities - stole The Palladium during the Trojan War leading to the fall of Troy.

In the spirit of the Blue Raiders and Trojans Greek mythology link, Middle Tennessee and Troy compete in The Battle for The Palladium during their annual Sun Belt Conference game. Legend dictates the winner of The Palladium gains an unknown and mystical advantage over the other making it more difficult to regain control during future battles. The history between the two schools dates back to 1936 with the Blue Raiders owning a 10-1 advantage in the series. Now competing in the same conference for the first time, the legend may carry over well after the football season is over. Many believe that losing possession of The Palladium is detrimental for the remainder of the school year carrying over into other sports matching the Trojans and Raiders. It’s also just one other factor to overcome in this rivalry game when Middle Tennessee and Troy meet each year.

If anyone has any questions...please don't hesitate to ask. Thanks!

[KAjunRaider]

We at MT are starting to raise funds.

We already have pledges in the neighborhood of $100 and probably another $100 coming from our board fund.

I'd like to make this a competition between our 2 boards to see who can come up with the most cash.

MT01, have you received money on PayPal yet?

This could be a neat thing for the future, something that all of us can say we had a part of.

Is there any way we can get a small plate on the bottom of the statue that states those of us who contributed to the cause, MT01?

I hearby pledge another $20!!

Great idea, MT01, and thanks for all of the Troy fans that are helping out. Also, much thanks to BlueRaiderPride. I have talked to some "higher ups" at MT and they absolutely love this idea.

Sounds like the "idea" is coming to fruition.

[MT01]

Good ideas KAjun.

BTW folks. A couple of weeks ago I sent letters to Troy and Middle Tennessee officials about the grassroots effort that have been ongoing. I captured a lot of the ideas that came from MT and Troy fans who contributed on our board and included those.

The first response I received came from Troy Chancellor, Dr. Hawkins. He was very excited about the prospects and the ideas being put forth. I would recommend that Troy have a similar thread for thinking about ideas for game week, game day, etc. More ideas lead to better events. If activites get put into play by adminstration, athletic departments, SGA's or all of them it could make the experience as good if not better than Homecoming Week. I've also spoken via email with Troy's Media Relations Director, and he liked the idea about "The World's Largest Toga Party" - another idea that came from brainstorms. I visited breifly last week with MT President Sydney McPhee in Gainesville about the game.

I think we have an opportunity to make the MT/Troy game a very special rivalry. I hope all of you will join us to help make that a reality.

Your donations to the statue are greatly appreciated. The cost of the Palladium is $1,500. We have some pledges from MT boosters and I have already have paid $500 for the down payment. Even if you can give $5 or $10 that would be great, and you would know you had a part in making this happen.

Thanks again guys for letting me post here!

[MT01]

Moderator,

I was wondering if you could place this thread back in the Football folder. I placed it in the football folder, since this is in reference to Troy's Football program and plus it seems the football folder gets many more hits. We raised some money at Saturday's game and we all agreed while talking about it that we want Troy to have just as much input and support of this as we do.

Thanks!

[faithintsu]

I guess i can do that, at first I thought this had nothing to doing with it, but I can see now that is about the football game.

[BMarkey]

You MT folks have done a lot to make this rivalry a reality. Thank you.

I hope you are seeing some good support from officials and students in Troy. Have you approached the Tropolitan (student newspaper), Troy Messenger, Dothan Eagle and Montgomery Advertiser about your plans? The Montgomery and Dothan TV stations might even be interested.

I'll send some $.

[MT01]

Thank you guys. To comment on your question about getting this out I have been in contact with media relations director Ricky Hazel and he seemed very supportive of what we are doing. Of course, as I said I received great feedback from Dr. Hawkins. I did see; however, your AD is leaving, so I know why I never heard back from him.

The statue should be finished in the next week or two. At that time I will take a digital photo of it and send it to both Ricky and MT media relations director Mark Owens (who used to be my boss), and I will allow them to go through their normal channels to release information. I don't think I need to do their jobs for them as they are both quite good at what they do, but they will definitely have the information to get it out to the media.

As I stated earlier even if you would like to give $5 or $10 we would be very appreciative to have you guys on board with this. I think it's going to be a great game this year and be a great rivalry for years to come. Tough luck against LSU. I was hoping you could pull it off!!

[formerlytsufan]

Thank you guys. To comment on your question about getting this out I have been in contact with media relations director Ricky Hazel and he seemed very supportive of what we are doing. Of course, as I said I received great feedback from Dr. Hawkins. I did see; however, your AD is leaving, so I know why I never heard back from him.

The statue should be finished in the next week or two. At that time I will take a digital photo of it and send it to both Ricky and MT media relations director Mark Owens (who used to be my boss), and I will allow them to go through their normal channels to release information. I don't think I need to do their jobs for them as they are both quite good at what they do, but they will definitely have the information to get it out to the media.

As I stated earlier even if you would like to give $5 or $10 we would be very appreciative to have you guys on board with this. I think it's going to be a great game this year and be a great rivalry for years to come. Tough luck against LSU. I was hoping you could pull it off!!


Where do we send the money?

[MT01]

If you have a paypal account you can pay through either of the email accounts listed on the very first post of this thread (preferably uofmt01@gmail.com) If you do not have one and want to set up a PayPal account you can do so fairly quick at www.paypal.com.

If you don't want to go through paypal you can email me at uofmt01@gmail.com and I will provide you with a mailing address.

Thanks.

[TrojanFan2]

Could you put someone at the gate (both schools) with a picture of the statue and maybe a little history and a bucket to drop donations in? That might collect a few bucks.

[MT01]

Could you put someone at the gate (both schools) with a picture of the statue and maybe a little history and a bucket to drop donations in? That might collect a few bucks.

If someone down there wants to volunteer? Sure.

[faithintsu]

MT01 Please check your private messages

[KAjunRaider]

MT01 will fill ya'll in on the details, but we have in the hundreds. Took just an hour to walk around and ask folks that were tailgating.

[MT01]

Good Day Trojan fans,

We took in an additional $479 on Saturday to add to the money we had last week, which I believe was close to $200. Thank you to those of you who contributed via PayPal last week. Were you guys able to collect any this weekend? Congrats on crushing Idaho. Nothing like spanking these teams on their way out the door to the WAC!

[KAjunRaider]

$751

[KAjunRaider]

http://people.delphiforums.com/CAJUNRAIDER1/Palladium.jpg

[KAjunRaider]

Hey Troy fans, we have raised half the amount.

We need your help, desperately!!

Thanks!

[TrojanFan2]

Is this official in any way? Has either school endorsed it? Is there really going to be a TOGA party. I haven't seen or heard a thing about this except what is on the board.

[MT01]

I think aspects of this will take time to grow. MT just had homecoming this past week. Student orgs and SGA were just trying to get through that and can concentrate a little more on this. I think there is to be a meeting next week between MT and Troy SGA. We will continue to push for as much as we can in this first year, but I think it's something that as I said above will have to grown and gain more support from year to year.

As far as the other questions once the statue is complete Mark Owens (MT) and Ricky Hazel (Troy) will release information to the media. As I stated in a previous post this has received good reviews from both sides including your Chancellor, so yes you can expect this to be endorsed by both schools. One thing that hurts us a little is the fact that you guys are losing your AD, but I think most of the leg work will need to come from the student bodies at both schools. I will try to keep you guys posted, but I anticipate you will hear something by the end of next week publicly.

Thanks.

[faithintsu]

Ok since I had no idea what was going on here I did alittle checking on this myself.

First, Ricky Hazel has no earthly idea about this. It was mentioned in one meeting a while back, but that is the extent of what he knows after talking about it with.

Secondly, I spoke with a member of the SGA, and was informed that they have no idea whats going on either. They felt it was being handaled by a higher power, so something is not right.

We need to get our ducks in a line before we move forward here. Now do not get me got wrong, I am all for this, and would love for everyone to meet under the GTT.Com tent to see this, but there are too many loose ends that need to be tied up.

[MT01]

I don't feel like I need to justify what things have been accomplished by by placing the email I received from Ricky Hazel just yesterday. Ricky even edited the description for the game. I will not disagree; however, that some of these things are slow in getting going.

Like I said some of this is going to take time and may not be full scale this year simply because it did not get started soon enough. Most of this stuff did not get going until after the season started, so you can't expect to move mountains in such a short amount of time.

The Troy SGA is dragging their feet. I never once heard back from Ryan Spry - the SGA president. That's not my fault. Talk to him. I decided to let the SGA's talk directly rather than being involved with that aspect since I'm no longer in school, and I understand that MT's SGA faculty adviser intends to hold a meeting soon. Hopefully your SGA will be willing to participate. Additionally, a gentlemen named Scott Pressley had a meeting with Troy SGA reps at the end of the summer. He actually drove down to Troy and was there in person.

One other point I will make is that it was decided unanimously to allow the students to play more of a role as this stuff gets going. They are more likely to take part and buy in if the ideas are their own. That falls at the hands of the SGA's at both schools and other student orgs. The saying goes you can lead a horse to water...

Anyway, I hope all of you will be patient with this. I don't anticipate that 2004 will be some kind of magical event...but the beginning of something great.

Thanks again for allowing me to post.

[faithintsu]

Please do not be upset with me, I was just making the post to bring some clarification to the table.

I had talked to Rickey last week, so I am not sure of the devlopment from yesterday.

I will talk with the SGA President as well as some other about it and see if we can get this going.

Again, I meant no harm or foulness in post, and I apologize if it came out like that, I am all for this!

[MT01]

I'm with you. I hope I didn't come off as atagonistic. My apologies if I did. Let me give you another name. Dr. Gene Finch (gfitch@mtsu.edu) is Vice President for Student Affairs at Middle Tennessee and oversees the MT SGA. He was planning to hold a meeting perhaps early next week, but I'm not sure if that's been set up yet. I have an email in to him but have not heard back yet. I strongly urged that the meeting include both Spry and Troys version of Dr. Fitch (not sure who that is). Any help you can provide will obviously be appreciated. A lot of times we as fans talk big about big ideas, but we really put anything into action. This is one time I'm hoping we stand up and make something good happen for our U's.

I will be in meetings all morning tomorrow, but I will try to touch base with Dr. Fitch if I have not hear back from him. Once I do hear from him I will send you an email and give you an update, because your are right on. We desperately need to move quicker to get a some things going, so I'm hoping a teleconference between both schools will happen soon. I will also follow up with Dr. Hawkins and Dr. McPhee. Both presidents were excited about the ideas, but I don't think they have talked specifically with each other about it.

[KAjunRaider]

I spoke to Prez Sidney McPhee last week at the MT coach's show. He loves the idea.........FWIW

[MT01]

Jeff, I've sent you an email to update you on the meeting.

[faithintsu]

I have also contacted the correct people at TU, but with it being Homecoming this week, its been quite hecktic for them.

[BlueRaiderPride]

Please do not be upset with me, I was just making the post to bring some clarification to the table.

I had talked to Rickey last week, so I am not sure of the devlopment from yesterday.

I will talk with the SGA President as well as some other about it and see if we can get this going.

Again, I meant no harm or foulness in post, and I apologize if it came out like that, I am all for this!

I met with representatives of Troy's SGA back in July. Among the attendees were SGA President Ryan Spry, Vice President for Student Activities Jessica Sparacino, SGA Faculty Advisor Barbara Patterson, and TroyMarkus who is one of your board posters who has helped me out with the campaign from Troy's side.

They were very excited about what I had to say, and maybe TroyMarkus can vouch for me when I say that. He was there.

I still have Ryan's business card. I need to get back in contact with him as the game draws closer. It'll be a night game (Troy official website posted it as a 6:00pm kickoff) so toga-wearing may be at the discretion of the fans--I don't know how cold it gets in L.A. (Lower Alabama) in late November.

I am extremely satisfied with the progress we have made toward this. And with North Texas likely to capture their fourth Sun Belt title and fourth New Orleans Bowl birth, this will be a great test for these two schools to see how well a MT/Troy game can be attended as the schools are both members of the same conference.

We need to get students and alumni excited about this game. One thing I may propose at the meeting with MT's SGA is to have a separate trophy to be awarded to the student organization with the most people at the game. The trophy could be awarded to any student-ran organization, fraternity, or sorority from either Troy or MTSU with the most people at the game! Furthermore, the name of the organization could be engraved somewhere on it's base to signify that year's winner. I think this will influence greater student attendance, not just from those of the home team.

I don't know about ya'll, but our student organizations at Middle Tennessee love the spirit of competition with other organizations within the institution--that is especially true with the Greeks. For pride's sake, I think you'd see a vast number of students make the trip from MTSU if they knew they were getting some type of recognition that would be forever etched in history.

I look forward to returning to Troy in a couple of weeks and being part of the Battle for the Palladium and the World's Largest Toga Party and a new college football tradition.

[BlueRaiderPride]

Is this official in any way? Has either school endorsed it? Is there really going to be a TOGA party. I haven't seen or heard a thing about this except what is on the board.

Nothing is official, HOWEVER, that's why we started this as a grassroots effort so eventually it would be official. This year's effort is one driven by indpendent fans from both MTSU and Troy. The Troy SGA has been supportive of this ever since July. I'm meeting with MTSU's SGA on Monday to discuss what we have for them then.

As far as endorsements, Dr. Jack Hawkins of Troy has applauded our efforts and Dr. Sidney McPhee of MTSU has also expressed his appreciation for our initiative.

As for a Toga Party? The idea of a "World's Largest Toga Party" spins from Georgia/Florida's "World's Largest Outdoor Cocktail Party" only we call it a "toga party" because of MTSU and Troy's Greek ties. Georgia and Florida have no legal patents on any part of the name for their contest and no one has a patent on the name, "World's Largest Toga Party" so calling it that is legal.

Now, just as it is unrealistic to think that all the Georgia and Florida fans will be drinking cocktails, it is also unrealistic to believe that this is an Animal House-ish toga party with alot of beer flying and people running around yelling "TOGA! TOGA! TOGA!" even though you could see that in the tailgating areas, I'm sure. When I think of "Toga Party", I think of thousands dressed in togas and a few others dressed up as characters from Greek myth--a large gathering of people in Greekish attire all convening together in the spirit of competition!

As for hearing about this, the messageboards is all you will hear from it for now. Ryan Spry assured me that the Trop would be notified and MTSU's student paper, Sidelines, I'm guessing will also be notified.

I think you'll hear more about this from larger sources here as the game draws closer, and if you don't then you definitely hear about it in future contests.

[TrojanFan2]

I just didn't want to be the only one in the stadium club with a Toga.

[troymarkus]

I was at the meeting in July. If this thing doesn't happen because our SGA didn't do anything that will be pathetic. They had plenty of time--since July to get off their tails and get it done.

I trust it will happen. And I'm excited about the game. It's the beginning of a great rivalry and hopefully a spirited competition each season!

[TrojanFan2]

If you really want to make it an event schedule a Greek Week around it and have something special for either pre-game or halftime.

[BlueRaiderPride]

I was at the meeting in July. If this thing doesn't happen because our SGA didn't do anything that will be pathetic. They had plenty of time--since July to get off their tails and get it done.

I trust it will happen. And I'm excited about the game. It's the beginning of a great rivalry and hopefully a spirited competition each season!

Fear not my good man. I spoke to Ryan Spry today over the phone. Your SGA has planned to advertise it in all your local and area newspapers. They also plan to put up banners and flyers all over your campus. They also plan to hype it up during the pre-game pep rally ya'll are having.

Anything major like any pregame festivities such as games, a mock beauty pageant, a logo for the game, etc. will likely come in the future.

We have the statue pretty much completed with some remaining debt to pay off on it.

I met with MTSU's SGA today and the response was awesome! MTSU's SGA would like to split the remaining cost with Troy's SGA which would be $300 a piece. MTSU's SGA is also sending a small caravan to the game which is better than nothing considering that we didn't give them much time, nor did they have the opportunity to budget such a trip.

MTSU's SGA also plans advertising of the game as well and it is possible that the trophy will make a brief appearance on MTSU's campus during MTSU's WNIT game against South Florida. They will also look at some announcing it a time or two over the PA at our game this weekend against Louisiana-Monroe.

I think the word is getting out pretty good. We may not see the crowd I want this time. But I think as more and more people become familiar with the contests, they will more actively participate.

Oh yeah, tell Ryan Spry that MTSU's SGA president thinks the two of them should do the trophy presentation wearing TOGAS!!! Actually, I'll tell him that tomorrow!

Exciting times, Trojan fans! Exciting times are ahead!!!

[faithintsu]

I do not think we need to worry anymore. As homecoming has settled down the SGA is focused on this now and able to devote their full attention to it so it will move along quickly.

I have spoken with folks within TU's SGA and been told we have nothing to worry about, and that they are going to promote it as best as they can.

[BlueRaiderPride]

The Palladium trophy is finished. You can view them through Community Webshots at this link:

http://community.webshots.com/photo/208243759/214815020uQTxzR

Yesterday, I spoke over the phone with Jessica Sparacino, Troy SGA Vice President for Student Activities. She wants to try to get the statue in Troy for your pep rally Thursday.

If I can get it from Chad at our game with ULM Saturday, I can only drive no further than Birmingham to meet someone from your end to pass it off to Troy. I don't know if Jessica will meet me there or even if TroyMarkus might be interested in taking it from Birmingham and sending it to Troy by next Thursday.

MTSU plans to have some major PR presentations with the trophy at our WNIT games this week. And Dr. Gene Fitch, SGA Faculty Advisor to MTSU, also thinks there should be a chance for Troy to display it and showcase it on your campus before the Nov. 20th game. And like I said, Jessica thinks it would be great to have it for your Thursday pep rally, and I whole-heartedly agree, but this will be Chad's call. I hope he won't mind. I won't make any plans until I hear from him.

It'll be a great time next weekend, Trojan fans. I'm looking very forward to meeting you all then!!

[BMarkey]

Let's get TU to use its FedEx or UPS accounts and ship that sucker (with insurance)!

[TUEngineer]

Yea, for real....they do enough shipping it shouldn't cost THAT much...

Also...that thing is GORGEOUS!
I was doubtful when I saw the pictures in progress...but WOW!

All that hard work...and it's gonna spend its first year in Troy... :lol:

[TrojanWar]

I agree. It's amazing MTSU spent so much time and money on a statue that will live permanantly in Troy! I guess we should give them a few bucks and say, "Thanks!"

[faithintsu]

You get ti to birmingham and I will make sure it is in Troy - No worries about that. Please drop me an e-mail so we can work the details out, sales@gotroytrojans.com.

The status looks great!! Yall did an awsome job!!

[Mr. Ho]

How big this thing? It look big like that Chief Caddo thing at NW La. Can't be that big.

Mr. Ho willing to keep it. Mrs. Ho not mind see everyone over at Ho House.

[TUEngineer]

hey hey hey...shouldn't you be running the restaurant? not posting? :lol:

[BlueRaiderPride]

How big this thing? It look big like that Chief Caddo thing at NW La. Can't be that big.

Mr. Ho willing to keep it. Mrs. Ho not mind see everyone over at Ho House.

It is 2 feet tall. However, another Raider poster is going to construct a pedestal that the statue will sit on. The pedestal will have engravings of all the scores from all the meetings in history beginning with the first on back in 1936 and from here on out.

Similar to the Stanley Cup, the trophy's pedestal will be added on to piece by piece whenever there is no more room.

[littlebittyschool]

How bout we forget about all those other games and just start with this year's score? :)

[KAjunRaider]

The MT student government is offering free buses to the game for all students who want to go to Troy.

We should have plenty of Toga wearers. This thing is really coming to fruition.

Students will be responsible for their tickets.

[BMarkey]

Free buses? That's fantastic.

I wonder why our school has never thought of such a thing for our away games.

Great job, Raiders.

[TrojanHoarse]

Raiders, Thanks for taking the initiative to get this statue and promote a healthy rivalry. It's good to see this sort of sportsmanship and positive competition. We look forward to the beginning of some great traditions.

I'm sure that once Trojans have the statue all year after this win and see how it propels our teams in every sport to beat MTSU, they'll be just as excited about keeping it next year too :twisted:

[BlueRaiderPride]

You get ti to birmingham and I will make sure it is in Troy - No worries about that. Please drop me an e-mail so we can work the details out, sales@gotroytrojans.com.

The status looks great!! Yall did an awsome job!!

Chad has given me the okay to carry the Palladium trophy to Birmingham next week. From there it would be the Troy person's responsibility to guard the trophy (which is extremely valuable) and make sure it arrives safely in the hands of the Troy Student Government Association so it can be showcased at your pep rally on Thursday! Troy's SGA would keep it until gameday and there will or at least should be a display for the trophy at the game inside the stadium. Of course, the SGA of the winning school will keep the Palladium on their campus for the year.

[bham-alumni]

My current plans are to be in Troy the Thursday night and Friday before the game on Saturday. Let me know if I can help.

Katzman

[faithintsu]

I can get it there - just please shoot me an e-mail and we can get this arranged.

Thansk!!

[tsufl]

lets hope BOTH schools push EA Sports to add this trophy and game to its "rivalry games"
Hope to make it to Troy, shame this thing isnt going to be on TV though.

[TROYgirl128]

Are people really going to wear togas to this game? I'm just curious.

[tsufl]

God I hope so!
chicks in togas = good stuff!

[TROYgirl128]

It is going to be cold, don't you think? I mean, I guess we are in South Alabama and as we all know, it could be 90 degrees just as easily as it could be 10 on Saturday. Don't get your hopes for half-dressed girls. If they have on togas, they'll have them on over all of their clothes, I think.

Are you wearing a toga, tsufl?

[BlueRaiderPride]

Are people really going to wear togas to this game? I'm just curious.

I ordered my toga today! I'm having it delivered next day by air!

BTW, the record plaques have been added to the trophy. I didn't get to see it in person, but here is a picture of "The Lady" at the GoMTBlue.com tailgate area:

http://community.webshots.com/photo/216971029/216980268dseMAW

You notice a black plaque on the Greek column that Athena is standing on. On the front side are etched all the scores from previous contests. On one side is a plaque with Middle Tennessee's logo on it. Troy's logo is on a plaque on the other side.

[KAjunRaider]

BRP,

Is the trophy gonna get a base done by RaiderDan?

He promised to do it. Hope someone takes it over to his shop ASAP, before your trip to Alabama.

[BlueRaiderPride]

BRP,

Is the trophy gonna get a base done by RaiderDan?

He promised to do it. Hope someone takes it over to his shop ASAP, before your trip to Alabama.

I don't know Kajun. I haven't heard from him or anybody on that.

And right now, MTSU officials have the Palladium in their possession. I'm gonna' have to make some calls up there tomorrow to find out who has it and if I can get it so I can meet Faithintsu in Birmingham, so it can get to Troy by Thursday.

[MT01]

Hey guys...thought I would drop in with a few comments. First let me tell you about the base. You may give your kudos, because I deliberated long and hard about whether the base should have a black plate with gold engraving or gold plate with black engraving. After I got them on the statue it just popped. I was so pleased with how it looked. The black plates are very shiny and really sets the statue off. On the sides are black plates with the Troy logo and the MT logo...you couldn't see those on the picture. Of course the front side has the scores. There is enough space on the front to put 12 years worth of scores in four different columns, so we should be able to fit 48 years of scores on the front side. The back side will give another 48 years. I can understand that some Troy fans may not want the scores on there, but I think the fact that our history goes back so long ago is just one of the things that can really help forge the rivalry. I don't think rivalries can be started...I think they just evolved. With that said, I believe with a little nudging we have given this one a chance to flourish.

If you have a chance, give your athletic department, adminstration, and SGA some props for being so supportive of this. It was tough on your SGA to have to plan for homecoming and then turn around so quickly and begin looking at what could be done for this game.

Last but not least I would like to thank those of you that gave a donation to the cause. We had quite a few Troy fans drop some cash on the PayPal account set up, so thank you. I look forward to my first ever trip to Troy this coming week!

[MT01]

lets hope BOTH schools push EA Sports (http://www.srch-results.com/lm/rtl.asp?k=ea%20sports) to add this trophy and game to its "rivalry games"
Hope to make it to Troy, shame this thing isnt going to be on TV though.

I agree 100 percent. I thank they will, but I intend to send them some information on it just in case. They used to have a place where you could submit ideas, information, etc.

[BlueRaiderPride]

On the sides are black plates with the Troy logo and the MT logo...you couldn't see those on the picture.

MT01, do you remember what logo you used for Troy? I think the Troy fans are very partial to the shield and crossed-swords, not the old "TSU under a Trojan helmet" logo or the logo with the Troy Trojans shield and and sword-wielding Trojan above it like is on the flyer. The shield and crossed-swords I think is their official logo now and that is what is on the center of their field at Movie Gallery Veterans Stadium.

Of course the front side has the scores. There is enough space on the front to put 12 years worth of scores in four different columns, so we should be able to fit 48 years of scores on the front side. The back side will give another 48 years.

Okay, I was not aware of the fourth plate on the back, but I had a feeling there was one.

I can understand that some Troy fans may not want the scores on there, but I think the fact that our history goes back so long ago is just one of the things that can really help forge the rivalry. I don't think rivalries can be started...I think they just evolved. With that said, I believe with a little nudging we have given this one a chance to flourish.

I have to agree here. And I think it's very important that Troy fans realize, I would've still been for this and still pushed for this even if their team had a 20-0 lead in a series. I think even though MTSU has a 10-1 lead, what really makes this game a true rivalry is how close the scores were except for maybe in a few.

I mean look at some of these scores. MTSU only beat Troy by six points the last time the two teams met in Troy in 1953. Four other times MTSU only won by less than two touchdowns like last year's game that was decided by one touchdown.

If you have a chance, give your athletic department, adminstration, and SGA some props for being so supportive of this. It was tough on your SGA to have to plan for homecoming and then turn around so quickly and begin looking at what could be done for this game.

I agree.

Last but not least I would like to thank those of you that gave a donation to the cause. We had quite a few Troy fans drop some cash on the PayPal account set up, so thank you. I look forward to my first ever trip to Troy this coming week!

Yes, their support is greatly appreciated. And I've got ya' beat, MT01! This will be my second trip to Troy! You'll see the nice billboard in Highway 231 advertising the "world university". You'll see the watertower with "Troy Trojans" on it which is identical to the style of watertower that we have in Murfreesboro that has "Home of the MTSU Blue Raiders" on it.

One thing I did really like about Troy's campus is that very attractive electronic sign right there on 231 where you turn on the road to the university. It's sits between the Sonic and Brittany's restaurant. Very nice. MTSU needs one of those!

Also, you must visit Curley's while you're there, MT01 and all other Raider fans! I promised this very devoted Trojan fan (Curley who owns the drive-in restaurant) back in July that I would bring a heckuva lot of friends from Murfreesboro with me in November and that we'd sample this Trojan chef's burgers and fries. Curley's is identical to Checkers that we know. Still, if just to see if he remembers me, I plan on stopping by there for my very first meal in Troy!

Look forward to Saturday Trojan fans! Should be a classic for the ages. Win or lose, we should still be happy that we are doing all this for our schools and for each other.

[formerlytsufan]

On the sides are black plates with the Troy logo and the MT logo...you couldn't see those on the picture.

MT01, do you remember what logo you used for Troy? I think the Troy fans are very partial to the shield and crossed-swords, not the old "TSU under a Trojan helmet" logo or the logo with the Troy Trojans shield and and sword-wielding Trojan above it like is on the flyer. The shield and crossed-swords I think is their official logo now and that is what is on the center of their field at Movie Gallery Veterans Stadium.

Of course the front side has the scores. There is enough space on the front to put 12 years worth of scores in four different columns, so we should be able to fit 48 years of scores on the front side. The back side will give another 48 years.

Okay, I was not aware of the fourth plate on the back, but I had a feeling there was one.

I can understand that some Troy fans may not want the scores on there, but I think the fact that our history goes back so long ago is just one of the things that can really help forge the rivalry. I don't think rivalries can be started...I think they just evolved. With that said, I believe with a little nudging we have given this one a chance to flourish.

I have to agree here. And I think it's very important that Troy fans realize, I would've still been for this and still pushed for this even if their team had a 20-0 lead in a series. I think even though MTSU has a 10-1 lead, what really makes this game a true rivalry is how close the scores were except for maybe in a few.

I mean look at some of these scores. MTSU only beat Troy by six points the last time the two teams met in Troy in 1953. Four other times MTSU only won by less than two touchdowns like last year's game that was decided by one touchdown.

If you have a chance, give your athletic department, adminstration, and SGA some props for being so supportive of this. It was tough on your SGA to have to plan for homecoming and then turn around so quickly and begin looking at what could be done for this game.

I agree.

Last but not least I would like to thank those of you that gave a donation to the cause. We had quite a few Troy fans drop some cash on the PayPal account set up, so thank you. I look forward to my first ever trip to Troy this coming week!

Yes, their support is greatly appreciated. And I've got ya' beat, MT01! This will be my second trip to Troy! You'll see the nice billboard in Highway 231 advertising the "world university". You'll see the watertower with "Troy Trojans" on it which is identical to the style of watertower that we have in Murfreesboro that has "Home of the MTSU Blue Raiders" on it.

One thing I did really like about Troy's campus is that very attractive electronic sign right there on 231 where you turn on the road to the university. It's sits between the Sonic and Brittany's restaurant. Very nice. MTSU needs one of those!

Also, you must visit Curley's while you're there, MT01 and all other Raider fans! I promised this very devoted Trojan fan (Curley who owns the drive-in restaurant) back in July that I would bring a heckuva lot of friends from Murfreesboro with me in November and that we'd sample this Trojan chef's burgers and fries. Curley's is identical to Checkers that we know. Still, if just to see if he remembers me, I plan on stopping by there for my very first meal in Troy!
Look forward to Saturday Trojan fans! Should be a classic for the ages. Win or lose, we should still be happy that we are doing all this for our schools and for each other.

I highly recommend eating at Crowe's while you are in Troy. Order the medium snack (really a meal) and order an extra sauce. If you like fried chicken fingers (who doesn't), you will love Crowe's.

[MT01]

Actually, the plate for the one on the back side is not on their. Figured no need for it at this time to just sit there and get all scratched up, and it can be placed on their in about 37 years. I figure by that time they will replace all of the plates to make it look nice and shiny again anyway.

As far as the logos it's neither one. The logo used is the primary logo Troy is using that has a swolled up Trojan dude with a sword over his head. It's pretty cool.

[littlebittyschool]

As far as the logos it's neither one. The logo used is the primary logo Troy is using that has a swolled up Trojan dude with a sword over his head. It's pretty cool.

You're kidding, right?

[BlueRaiderPride]

As far as the logos it's neither one. The logo used is the primary logo Troy is using that has a swolled up Trojan dude with a sword over his head. It's pretty cool.

You're kidding, right?

I would say that he's not, but considering he put up over half the costs so far, I'd say let's roll with it. If anything money could be raised to replace that one plate with any logo Troy desires. Heck, that may be the logo desired by your administration. But even if it isn't, don't be mad at him or any of us on MTSU's side. We certainly want this to be a nice healthy rivalry. And I certainly want everyone happy.

[MT01]

I actually wanted the logo that's on the helmet, but that was not the one provided to me by the Troy athletic department. I actually verified a second time that's the one they wanted to use. It's fairly inexpensive to replace if Troy wishes to do so.

[MT01]

It is going to be cold, don't you think? I mean, I guess we are in South Alabama and as we all know, it could be 90 degrees just as easily as it could be 10 on Saturday. Don't get your hopes for half-dressed girls. If they have on togas, they'll have them on over all of their clothes, I think.

Are you wearing a toga, tsufl?

Early reports say 71 degrees and 30% chance of showers. I say get your Toga on Troygirl!! Of course the game is at 6:00, so you'll have to drink a lot before to prepare for the temperature falling.

[BlueRaiderPride]

It is going to be cold, don't you think? I mean, I guess we are in South Alabama and as we all know, it could be 90 degrees just as easily as it could be 10 on Saturday. Don't get your hopes for half-dressed girls. If they have on togas, they'll have them on over all of their clothes, I think.

Are you wearing a toga, tsufl?

Early reports say 71 degrees and 30% chance of showers. I say get your Toga on Troygirl!! Of course the game is at 6:00, so you'll have to drink a lot before to prepare for the temperature falling.

71 Degrees!!!! OH MY GOD! We're playing in the tropics this weekend!!! Thank goodness my supervisor is letting me have part of this weekend off, since I've been planning this trip since May! I'll be leaving Friday afternoon or really freakin' early Saturday. It depends on how much they want me to work this weekend.

[BlueRaiderPride]

I actually wanted the logo that's on the helmet, but that was not the one provided to me by the Troy athletic department. I actually verified a second time that's the one they wanted to use. It's fairly inexpensive to replace if Troy wishes to do so.

I had a feeling you wouldn't have used a logo of Troy without the consent of some officials there. Very smart move, MT01! I like the shield and crossed-swords just as much as all the other Trojan fans, but since their athletic department chose that one that you mentioned, perhaps the fans of Troy won't mind it so much. Afterall, it's Goddess Athena! And who know's? A Troy victory may be etched in the 2004 slot on the front of the trophy!

Even if my team loses, I'm still going to have fun with the Trojan fans!

[littlebittyschool]

It's not that bad really. I just think the intial shock when it was first thrown out to us was pretty hard to swallow. Amazing job on the whole rivalry game that you guys have done. If the athletic department wants it, then I'll support it.

The scores on the front plate are all that matter to me.

Go Trojans! Beat the MUTS!

[BlueRaiderPride]

It's not that bad really. I just think the intial shock when it was first thrown out to us was pretty hard to swallow. Amazing job on the whole rivalry game that you guys have done. If the athletic department wants it, then I'll support it.

The scores on the front plate are all that matter to me.

Go Trojans! Beat the MUTS!

You got that right! Faithintsu, I never heard back from the MTSU SGA so I don't know about getting that thing to Birmingham today, so it can be showcased at Troy's pep rally tomorrow.

[faithintsu]

Dont worry about that - just bring it to BHAM as I have spoken with the VPCA and she is wanting to get it ASAP.

Please drop me an e-mail at sales @ gotroytrojans . com so we can arrange the transfer of it if you are still coming.

[BlueRaiderPride]

Dont worry about that - just bring it to BHAM as I have spoken with the VPCA and she is wanting to get it ASAP.

Please drop me an e-mail at sales @ gotroytrojans . com so we can arrange the transfer of it if you are still coming.

I can't, Faithintsu. The MTSU SGA has the trophy. I would have to get it from them first. I'm not even sure I'll have enough time to make the trip all the way to Birmingham and back and make it in time for work. I wanted Troy's SGA to have a chance to have it for their pep rally. Maybe the MTSU SGA has their own way of getting it to Troy by Thursday?

[MT01]

Dont worry about that - just bring it to BHAM as I have spoken with the VPCA and she is wanting to get it ASAP.

Please drop me an e-mail at sales @ gotroytrojans . com so we can arrange the transfer of it if you are still coming.

I can't, Faithintsu. The MTSU SGA has the trophy. I would have to get it from them first. I'm not even sure I'll have enough time to make the trip all the way to Birmingham and back and make it in time for work. I wanted Troy's SGA to have a chance to have it for their pep rally. Maybe the MTSU SGA has their own way of getting it to Troy by Thursday?

The MT SGA was to look at trying to make that happen. If they couldn't they were going to contact BlueRaiderPride...since they haven't hopefully they found an alternative to get it down to Troy prior to tomorrow's pep rally.

[BlueRaiderPride]

faithintus,I AM ON MY WAY TO birmingingham with the trophy. PLEASE CALL ME AT xxx-xxx-xxxxAS SOON AS POSSIBLE TO DISCUSS WHERE TO MEET

Edit: took his phone number out for privacy

[RDA Trojan]

I agree. It's amazing MTSU spent so much time and money on a statue that will live permanantly in Troy! I guess we should give them a few bucks and say, "Thanks!"

Seriously! Since 2004, Troy is 6-1, with the lone loss coming in 2005, the 4-7 season where we were 3-4 in conference play.

[Mike Cunningham]

This was a very interesting read. Thanks for the bump.