Virginia Spring Football Festival Returns Saturday

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Charlottesville, VA Saturday marks the return of the Virginia Spring Football Festival to Scott Stadium. A variety of pregame activities will start at noon followed by the annual Virginia Spring Football Game at 2 p.m. All events are free to the public and there is no charge for parking at Scott Stadium and adjacent lots. WINA radio (1070 AM) bill broadcast the Spring Game live with Mac McDonald calling the action.

Gates will open at noon on the north, east and west ends of the stadium. The Festival activities will be held on the field and at the north end of the stadium on the Pergola Plaza and the east side of the stadium.

On field level, fans of all ages can participate in a series of football combine events to test their gridiron skills. Activities include a 40-yard dash, field goal kick station and target throw.

From noon until 1:45, the Pergola Plaza will include inflatable games.
Youngsters can also try their hand at broadcasting by dropping by the WCAV-TV Junior Sportscaster booth at Cavalier One. In addition, there will be a raffle sign up station where fans will be able to enter to win Virginia prizes.

The east side of the stadium will feature appearances by Cavman and his horse, Sabre, face painting and tattoos, balloon artists, and the distribution of promotional materials including posters and schedule cards

There will be a tailgate for UVa students from noon to 1:45.

The east side of the stadium will also be the destination for children who participate in the Cavalier Essay Contest to submit their entries. All students, eighth grade and under, are encouraged to write an essay on “Why character matters.” The entries will be reviewed and judged by the UVa Athletics Academic Affairs staff. The top three winners will receive prizes.

Fans will also have the opportunity to purchase concession items on the Pergola Plaza and from the concession stands located on the east side of the stadium. The Pergola Plaza will feature ice cream from Ben & Jerry’s and Dippin’ Dots, Domino’s Pizza, along with hamburgers and hot dogs from the Cavalier Grill.

Prior to the 2 p.m. kickoff of the Spring Game, the annual Rock Weir Award winners will be announced that honor the most improved players during spring drills. The team captains for the 2008 season will also be announced. At the conclusion of the Spring Game, fans will be able to obtain autographs from the players on the field.

The Best of Cavman Contest

Map of the Pergola Plaza and Activities

Map of the East and West Gate Areas and Activities