September 06, 2007

“I am so pleased that a sponsor like Friends of Coal has now stepped up to take this game to a level of national prominence similar to the great in-state rivalries of such schools as Florida-Florida State, Alabama-Auburn and Clemson-South Carolina.”
-West Virginia Gov. Joe Manchin

"Coal is a part of everything good in the Mountain State, so it's natural that the Friends of Coal would jump in and become a part of this game. I know all football fans in the state appreciate their generous support."
–Rich Rodriguez, head football coach, West Virginia University

“This series is going to be great for all of West Virginia and to have the Friends of Coal supporting it as a title sponsor makes it even more special. It is only fitting to have West Virginia’s two Division 1-A football programs facing off in the Friends of Coal Bowl. We are excited about the rivalry and look forward to kicking it off in September.”
–Marshall University head football coach Mark Snyder

"We are happy the Friends of Coal are joining us in making this game one of a kind; their support is tremendous. We are looking forward to a great season opener on September 2."
–Ed Pastilong, athletic director, West Virginia University

We greatly appreciate the Friends of Coal for their support in helping to make this a great event. This series will showcase two outstanding Universities that all West Virginians can be proud of and we look forward to opening the season with the Friends of Coal Bowl.
–Bob Marcum, athletic director, Marshall University

“The coal industry is pleased to be contributing to the universities and to this football series. It is only natural that our industry would like to do everything we can to make the Friends of Coal Bowl a great event.”
–Randy Hansford, Chairman, West Virginia Coal Association Board of Directors

“Our industry is the major industry in West Virginia, and we believe that it helps bring our state together. We also believe this football game will bring our state together because it involves West Virginia’s two flagship institutions.
“We’re happy to have an important role in this tremendous game. And we hope that our participation will put a spotlight on the proud working people of the coal industry.”
–Bill Raney, President, West Virginia Coal Association