KNOXVILLE -- The 2006 Edamerica Orange and White Game is slated for Saturday, April 8, and plans are underway to create a day the entire family can enjoy.
The day begins with Fans Day at Thompson-Boling Arena, including an autograph session with the team on the arena floor from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. The first 7,500 fans receive a free fan pack.
Along with the traditional autograph signing session, this year's Fans Day includes inflatable games and a special performance by the "Chillbillies" on the northeast arena plaza from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.
This year, Fans Day is being moved to Thompson-Boling Arena because of Neyland Stadium construction. While fans will not have access to the field this year, the new set-up allows fans to have more time for autographs and other family activities.
The Edamerica Orange & White game kicks off at 2 p.m. Gates open at 12:45 p.m. Tickets are $5 for adults and $3 for children and are available online at utsports.com. Tickets also will be available day of the game at the stadium starting at noon. Ticket booths will be located at Gates 10, 17 and 21.
Following the Edamerica Orange and White Game, the Diamond Vols take on LSU at 4 p.m. Tickets are $5 for adults and $3 for children.
Schedule of Events
11 a.m.-12:30 p.m. - Autograph session at Thompson-Boling Arena (enter from the lower southeast entrance). Only one signed item per fan for each player and coach.
11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. - Interactive game area and "Chillbillies" concert on the northeast arena plaza.
2 p.m. - Edamerica Orange and White game
4 p.m. - Baseball vs. LSU
The following are access gates for the stadium: Gate 9 (medical and Tennessee player pass gate only), Gate 10, Gate 13, Gate 14 and 14-A (sky box and media entrance only), Gate 16, Gate 18 and Gate 20.
Additional Information:
- Program vendors will be located at the ticket booth at Gate 11.
- Disabled seating will be available on the 3rd level North End.
- Due to construction, seating for the O&W Game will be limited to the lower west and lower South sections only.
Fans attending the Edamerica Orange and White Game will be asked to observe many of the same security measures used at Neyland Stadium last fall. Large items and backpacks will not be allowed in the stadium, and all parcels are subject to inspection. Parents with infants will be permitted to bring diaper bags. Keeping with current stadium policy, still photographic cameras will be permitted. Camera cases may be searched, and all fans are subject to screening before entering the stadium.
(E-mail Stan Crawley at wscrawley@earthlink.net)