The University of Kentucky and the University of Louisville have agreed to a four-year contract to continue the Governor’s Cup football series through the 2009 season.
The series was scheduled to expire when the Wildcats and Cardinals face off on Sunday, September 4, 2005 at Commonwealth Stadium.
The new contract calls for the Wildcats to visit the Cardinals at Papa John’s Cardinal Stadium on Sept. 2 in 2006. U of L has agreed to play at Commonwealth Stadium on September 15 in 2007 and host the Wildcats on August 30 in 2008. The final game of the series is slated for either Sept. 12 or Sept. 19 in Lexington during the 2009 campaign.
“UK is excited to continue this important series,” said Mitch Barnhart, UK Director of Athletics. “Even though this is a relatively young rivalry, it is a big game to the teams and the fans of the Commonwealth and will generate great anticipation regardless of when it comes on the schedule. We appreciate U of L?s willingness to be flexible in the schedule as we strive to do what we believe is best for our program. It?s good that we were able to come to an agreement and we look forward to the continued competition between the teams.”
“It was certainly our preference to always keep this the first game of the season,” said U of L Athletics Director Tom Jurich. “However, our No. 1 priority was to keep this series going. I’m glad for the fans in the state of Kentucky that we were able to continue this rivalry.”
The series, which began in 1912, was resumed in 1994 after a 70-year hiatus. The Wildcats won that contest, 20-14, at Commonwealth Stadium and own a 10-7 series advantage. However, the Cardinals have won seven of the last 11 meetings, including five of the last six.
“I’m glad the new contract has been finalized and that we’re continuing to play them,” said UK Coach Rich Brooks.
“I’m disappointed that we’re not playing the game as our opener every season,” said head coach Bobby Petrino. “We enjoy playing this game as the opener. It’s great for football in the state. But I’m glad for the fans in the Commonwealth that the series will be continued.”
Fans? Day Set for Saturday: The annual Kentucky Football Fans? Day will be held Saturday, Aug. 13, at Commonwealth Stadium.
Activities begin outside the stadium at 9 a.m. with the ?Wildcat Refuge? children?s play area.
Gate 4 and Gate 9 of the stadium open at 10 a.m., when posters, Wildcat gift envelopes, and prize tickets will be given away. Schedule cards, schedule magnets, meal tickets, and other goodies will be in the gift envelopes. Meal tickets can be redeemed for free hot dogs and Pepsi while supplies last.
Coach Rich Brooks and the team will be introduced at 11 a.m., followed by an autograph session with the Wildcat coaches and players. During the autograph session, there will be drawings for grand prizes, such as football season tickets, airfare and tickets to away football games, women?s basketball season tickets, Kroger gift cards, and other items.
Fans also can get an up-close look at special elements of Wildcat football. An equipment stand will be set up in the east end zone and fans can try on UK helmets and shoulder pads. UK athletic trainers also will have a station in the east end zone, demonstrating ankle taping and other activities.
The autograph session ends at 12:45 p.m. Fans are invited to remain at the stadium and observe practice, which will begin at 1:20 p.m.
