A New Tradition for Mountaineer Fans
App State Athletics is rolling out a fresh engagement series called "Football Fridays" for the 2026 season, designed to bring supporters closer to the program’s heritage and leadership. By pairing pre‑game meals with conversations from former players and coaches, the initiative seeks to deepen the connection between the fan base and the team’s future.
The schedule kicks off on September 4 with a lunch hosted by Steve Wilks, a Mountaineer alum and Special Assistant to Athletics, at the Town Tavern in Banner Elk. Additional gatherings will be held at venues in Blowing Rock, West Jefferson and Morganton, each offering fans a chance to meet fellow supporters in their own communities before heading to the stadium.
Head Coach Dowell Loggains will join the festivities on October 9 at Rivers Street Ale House in Boone, providing a rare opportunity for attendees to hear directly from the team’s leader. A special luncheon on Thursday, October 22, will be held at the same location to coincide with the nationally televised showdown against James Madison, further amplifying the event’s visibility.
Ticket Details and Community Impact
Each participant is asked to contribute $25 at the door, a fee that covers a catered lunch and a bottle of water. Attendees may purchase additional drinks at their discretion, with proceeds earmarked for the Mountaineers Athletic Fund. The fund supports scholarships, training resources and other essential services for student‑athletes, reinforcing the program’s commitment to holistic development.
Organizers encourage fans to RSVP for the inaugural event with Wilks, ensuring adequate provisions for the growing interest. While the luncheons are primarily aimed at fostering camaraderie, they also serve as a platform to highlight the broader mission of App State Athletics: to nurture talent both on and off the field through community involvement.