Aug. 6, 2010

MEMPHIS, TENN. - Memphis Tiger Football fans had their first "pep rally" of the 2010 season in the form of the annual Highland Hundred Kick-Off Banquet Friday evening at the Memphis Hilton.

The banquet featured several speakers including Highland Hundred President Tom Fristick, City of Memphis Mayor A.C. Wharton, U of M President Dr. Shirley Raines, Athletic Director R.C. Johnson and Head Coach Larry Porter. In addition to the speakers, fans had their first opportunity to see the Tiger newcomers as each of the 36 players introduced themselves to the crowd.

In addition, there was a special highlight video produced by the Tiger video staff and former Tiger offensive lineman Bob Rush was presented with the Labor of Love Award by former Highland Hundred president Bobby Wharton. Rush, who was an Associated Press All-American in 1975 and 1976, served 21 seasons as the color commentator for the official radio broadcast.

Porter addressed the crowd following the highlight video and spoke about his team and about the upcoming schedule.

"The chemistry of this team has started to take place without the coaches being around," said Porter in reference to how hard the squad has worked over the summer to prepare for fall camp.

"Our schedule is exciting," added Porter. "It offers every opportunity to enhance the brand of Memphis Football as well as our growth as a team. Good teams must learn how to win on the road and young teams must learn how not to have self-inflicted wounds when you are on the road. And we embrace that challenge."

The Tigers open the season with their first two games on the road - Sept. 4 at Mississippi State and Sept. 11 at East Carolina. Porter will coach his first game from the sidelines of Liberty Bowl Memorial Stadium on Sept. 18 when the U of M hosts Middle Tennessee State.

"We have asked our players to invest in the helmet, and now we are asking you to invest in the helmet," said Porter in closing. "It's not just our team, but it is your team. Success of this football program hinges on the University of Memphis and the City of Memphis joining together as one to put us in position to reach our goals."

The team will officially report to camp on Sunday. The first practice is Monday afternoon at the Murphy Complex. The Tigers will have five single practices before their first two-a-day session on Saturday.

Below are various videos from the Highland Hundred Kick-off Banquet including Porter speaking to media prior to the event, the highlight video and the newcomer introductions.