Footballers at the Penn State and the University of Central Florida (UCF) are super excited for their 2014 season opener. Wondering why?
They will be facing a whole new international crowd!
Penn State University (PSU) will begin their season against the University of Central Florida in Ireland, which is considered to be the first international game for both teams.
"Our visit this weekend has only reinforced our reasons for wanting to come and play in Dublin," said, Dave Joyner, PSU athletic director. "We've not only grown our appreciation for the games so entrenched in the history and traditions here in Ireland, but have also confirmed that, because of the Irish people and their hospitality, Penn State fans are going to love their time here in late summer of 2014."
The game is scheduled to take place on Friday, Aug. 30, at 1:30 p.m. or 8:30 a.m. EST at Croke Park, Dublin. Penn State will be playing its first international game since the program's inception in 1887. The match will happen at Croke Park, the headquarters of the Gaelic Athletic Association (GAA)
"We are thrilled to announce that we will play UCF at Croke Park to open the 2014 season," PSU coach Bill O'Brien said. "Our players and coaches are so excited to go to Ireland and play a college football game in such a historic and outstanding venue. I have great respect for coach [George] O'Leary and his team, and playing UCF in Ireland will be a fantastic experience for all the players, coaches and fans."
Overall, while Ireland has hosted seven American college football games, Croke Park has held just three games in its 100-year history.
"This is a hugely significant event for Croke Park and Ireland," said Páraic Duffy, GAA director. "We in the GAA are looking forward to hosting a competitive sporting occasion. Irish people are renowned for their love of sport as evidenced by the thousands who attend our games throughout the year. I have no doubt that this game will be every bit as attractive."
