April 26, 2006
1966 Rose Bowl Season Feature
WEST LAFAYETTE, Ind. -
The Purdue football team will recognize the 40th anniversary of the 1966 Rose Bowl season during the 2006 season opener against Indiana State at Ross-Ade Stadium on Sept. 2.
The Boilermakers will wear throwback uniforms - helmets, jerseys and pants - replicating the ones worn by their forefathers in the 1967 Rose Bowl, a 14-13 win over USC. Coaches, managers and cheerleaders also will don vintage-looking apparel. The "All-American" Marching Band will get into the retro act by performing popular tunes from 1966 at halftime and reviving Big Ten flags from the 1960s era.
As part of the throwback concept, fans can buy south end zone tickets, known as the Family FanZone, for the Sept. 2 game during this Saturday's Black & Gold Game for the 1966 ticket price of $5. There is no limit to the number of tickets that can be purchased, and the Athletic Ticket Office will be open from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. The special ticket price is available only on April 29.
Purdue has invited back all members of the 1966 team for the Sept. 1-2 weekend.
"The throwback game allows us to mesh the tradition of Purdue football with a unique opportunity for our fans," said Greg Christopher, Purdue associate athletics director for external relations. "Two ideas drive the concept. First, it's a terrific way to celebrate one of Purdue's greatest seasons and bring the 1966 team back to campus. Second, everyone involved can have some fun with the throwback experience. Ultimately, we hope it generates excitement around the season opener and some added energy in the stadium to support the team."
The helmets are being made by Riddell, while the jerseys and pants will be produced by Nike.
"Both companies did a great job working with us to make the items as genuine as possible," Purdue equipment manager Mike Shandrick said. "It's interesting that in 1966 the helmets and pants were different shades of gold, so we intentionally kept them different. All in all, I think everything will be pretty authentic."
The Boilermakers' official athletics Web site, purduesports.com, will launch a special 1966 Rose Bowl season tribute today featuring information, stories and statistics, plus "catching-up" interviews with members of the team throughout the spring and summer.
Leroy Keyes, a sophomore halfback on the 1966 squad and currently an assistant director of the John Purdue Club, said the recognition of that special team, which finished 9-2 overall and ranked No. 6 nationally, means a lot.
"I know I speak for all my teammates and coaches in saying we appreciate being remembered on the occasion of the 40th anniversary of one of the greatest seasons in Purdue football history," Keyes said. "It was an honor and a privilege to represent Purdue University and carry the banner for the Big Ten Conference in the granddaddy of all bowl games."
Following the Indiana State game, Purdue will auction off the helmets, jerseys and pants worn by the players, as well as the cheerleading uniforms. In addition, a full line of 40th anniversary clothing and novelties will be available for sale. More details will be forthcoming.
The game will be sponsored by PEFCU.