Courtesy of Grand Valley State & Saginaw Valley State Athletic Communcations
ALLENDALE -- Grand Valley State and Saginaw Valley State will each be wearing a dark home uniform for Saturday's GLIAC contest at Lubbers Stadium as part of a theme and possible tradition for upcoming games between the two institutions. The idea was derived from the USC-UCLA game where the crosstown rivals both wear the traditional dark home uniform. In addition, the Thursday night NFL "Color Rush" theme that has been incorporated the last couple of years played a role in the thought process.
"It is very exciting that both of our institutions have come together with a great idea to add to the tradition of the Saginaw Valley State - Grand Valley State rivalry," said SVSU head coach Jim Collins. "The wearing of home uniforms by both teams creates one more story line to what has been a rivalry filled with its share of memorable and impactful football games."
"We are excited to be a part of possibly starting a new tradition between Grand Valley State and Saginaw Valley State, much like the traditional game between USC and UCLA where each team wears a dark version of a home uniform," said GVSU head football coach Matt Mitchell. "I also applaud both institutions for coming up with ideas to enhance and keep the rivalry fresh and exciting. Student-athletes go to both schools to be a part of meaningful football games and the series between Grand Valley State and Saginaw Valley State has been filled with games that have had an impact in the State of Michigan, the midwest and nationally."
The Battle of Valleys game, often played at the end of the season, will be played in September for the first time since the 2009 season. The teams met on November 5 last season, with the Lakers pulling out a 62-56 victory at SVSU in double overtime.
Kickoff for Saturday's game at GVSU's Lubbers Stadium is set for 7 p.m. and tickets are available by calling (616) 331-3200 or by going online at GVSUlakers.com tickets. The game will also be shown live on ESPN3.
