RICHMOND, Ky. – Football season is here and Eastern Kentucky University begins its 2019 campaign on Thursday, August 29 when Valparaiso University visits Roy Kidd Stadium.  Don't miss these EKU football events leading up to the season-opener.
 
The EKU football kick-off rally is scheduled for Tuesday, August 27 at 6 p.m. at Gillum's Sports Lounge in the Richmond Mall.   Head coach Mark Elder will preview the Colonels' season-opener.  Free football schedule magnets and posters will be available.  This event is free and open to the public.
 
Every Thursday throughout the season, Elder will give an inside look and answer questions from fans at the Mark Elder Luncheon at Golden Corral.  The luncheon begins at noon.  The first luncheon of the season is set for GAME DAY on August 29.

New this season, fans can tune into Facebook each Tuesday for the weekly "Live with Mark Elder" presented by Madison County EMA/CSEPP.  The voice of the Colonels, Greg Stotelmyer, will host the show.  "Live with Mark Elder" will premiere on August 27 at 2 p.m.  Every episode will be available on demand on the EKU Colonels Facebook page.
 
Kickoff against the Crusaders is scheduled for 7 p.m.  For ticket information, contact the EKU Athletics Ticket Office at 844-3-GOBIGE.
 
EKU is ranked 24th in the Preseason HERO Sports Top 25, 25th in the Lindy's Sports Preseason Top 25 and 26th in the College Sports Madness Top 44.  Eastern Kentucky ended the 2018 season with four straight wins and were in the conversation for a playoff spot.  The Colonels finished 7-4 overall and third in the OVC with a 5-2 mark.