State College, PA (Sports Network) - The Penn State football team will have a
new look when they take the field at Beaver Stadium for their 126th season on
September 1 against Ohio University.
The team will wear uniforms featuring a blue ribbon to support all victims of
child abuse. And for the first time in school history, the last name of each
player will be on the back of the jersey.
Putting the players' names on the jerseys will be "in recognition of their
resolve and dedication to the team and the University," according to a
statement from the school.
"The Penn State community stands with all victims of child abuse," said acting
athletic director David Joyner in the release. "Coach Bill O'Brien and his
football team made it clear they want to support victims and bring more
awareness to this issue, which affects so many."
Penn State started practice on Monday under first-year head coach O'Brien.
"I'm proud that our players want to be part of the University's efforts to
help victims of child abuse," O'Brien said. "We hope our fans join us in
wearing blue ribbons to all Penn State home games. Together, we can make a
difference in the lives of children everywhere."
The Sports Network